Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership

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The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership is a fully funded leadership programme created to prepare African professionals for senior roles in public health. This opportunity is aimed at individuals who want to influence health policy, strengthen health systems, and lead change across Africa. Applications are now open for Cohort 6, with the fellowship starting in June 2026.

This fellowship is hosted by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in partnership with the Kofi Annan Foundation. It is designed for professionals who already hold leadership or technical roles in health-related fields and are ready to grow into higher decision-making positions. The programme focuses on real leadership challenges facing Africa’s health sector today.

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About the Fellowship

The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership is a high-level programme that combines practical training, mentorship, and placement within leading health institutions. Fellows are exposed to policy processes, governance structures, and regional health priorities. The goal is to prepare leaders who can guide health responses at national, regional, and continental levels.

The fellowship runs for several months and includes in-person and field-based components. Fellows work closely with experienced leaders in public health, government, and development institutions. Learning is hands-on and closely linked to real health challenges affecting African populations.

Who Should Apply

This fellowship is for African professionals with strong interest in public health leadership. You may be working in government, international organisations, civil society, research, or health programmes. You should already have professional experience and show clear commitment to public service and leadership.

You should be motivated by impact. You should be willing to learn, listen, and lead. You should be ready to work with people from different countries and backgrounds. You should also be comfortable handling responsibility and pressure.

Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential. This does not mean holding a top title. It means showing initiative, accountability, and the ability to influence outcomes. Experience in health policy, health systems, or related fields is important.

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What the Fellowship Offers

The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership is fully funded. This means selected fellows do not pay programme fees. Travel, accommodation, and related costs are covered according to programme guidelines.

Fellows receive structured leadership training. They take part in workshops, seminars, and group sessions led by experienced professionals. Topics include health governance, policy design, crisis leadership, and regional cooperation.

Each fellow is placed within a host institution. This allows you to apply your learning in a real work environment. You contribute to ongoing projects while gaining insight into high-level decision-making processes.

Mentorship is a key part of the programme. Fellows are guided by senior leaders who share practical knowledge and career insight. This support continues beyond the formal training sessions.

Learning and Exposure

The fellowship exposes you to continental health priorities. You gain a deeper understanding of how health decisions are made across Africa. You learn how institutions coordinate responses to health threats and long-term challenges.

You also build strong professional networks. You connect with other fellows from different countries and sectors. These relationships often continue after the fellowship and support future collaboration.

The programme places strong focus on ethics, accountability, and service. Fellows are encouraged to lead with integrity and respect for communities they serve.

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Fellowship Timeline

Applications are currently open. The deadline for submission is 30 January 2026. Shortlisted candidates will go through a competitive selection process.

The fellowship begins in June 2026. Selected fellows are expected to commit fully to the programme schedule and activities. Flexibility and availability are important.

Why This Opportunity Matters

Africa faces complex health challenges. These include disease outbreaks, health financing gaps, and unequal access to care. Strong leadership is critical to address these issues.

The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership prepares leaders who understand these realities. It equips you with skills to influence policy, manage teams, and guide institutions through change.

This fellowship is not academic only. It is practical. It focuses on action, responsibility, and results. It is suited for professionals who want to move from technical roles into leadership spaces.

Career Impact

Many past fellows have gone on to hold senior roles in health institutions. Others have influenced policy, led programmes, or advised governments. The fellowship strengthens your professional profile and credibility.

It also helps you clarify your leadership direction. You gain confidence in your ability to operate at higher levels of responsibility.

Commitment and Expectations

Fellows are expected to uphold high professional standards. You are expected to participate actively and complete all programme requirements. You represent the values of the fellowship and its partners.

This is a demanding programme. It requires focus, discipline, and openness to learning. It also requires respect for different perspectives and cultures.

How to Prepare Your Application

You should clearly explain your leadership journey. Show how your experience connects to public health. Explain why this fellowship fits your career path.

Be clear about your goals. Show how you plan to use the fellowship experience to serve your country or region. Use clear language and real examples.

Final Note

The Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership is a rare opportunity for African professionals who want to shape the future of health on the continent. If you are ready to grow, serve, and lead, this fellowship offers a strong platform to take that next step.

Disclaimer: The Business Pulse shares verified opportunities from trusted sources. We are not a recruiting agency and do not request any payment for applications.

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