Are you a talented and driven individual from Sub-Saharan Africa pursuing a PhD or recently completed one? The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 is now open for applications, offering an extraordinary opportunity for future African leaders to gain valuable hands-on experience in international development.
The fellowship provides a fully funded, six-month placement at the World Bank Group (WBG) headquarters in Washington, D.C., or in one of its country offices. It is designed to help early-career African scholars contribute to development work, policymaking, and poverty alleviation strategies across the continent.
If you're passionate about transforming Africa’s future through research and policy, this is your chance to work alongside world-class economists and development professionals.
Overview of the WBG Africa Fellowship 2026:
● Program Duration: 6 months (January – June 2026).
● Location: World Bank Headquarters (Washington, D.C.) or a WBG country office.
● Financial Coverage: Consultant fees and round-trip economy airfare.
● Application Deadline: August 25, 2025.
● Target Group: Nationals of Sub-Saharan African countries.
● Priority Focus: Women applicants are highly encouraged to apply.
● Fields of Work: Economic research, public policy, technical assistance, and lending operations.
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What is the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program?
The WBG Africa Fellowship Program is a prestigious and competitive initiative that targets young African PhD candidates and recent graduates (within three years of degree completion) who are committed to development economics, research, and public policy.
Launched to foster the next generation of African development professionals, the program offers hands-on training in research, technical assistance, and policy development all core areas of the World Bank’s mission to eliminate poverty and promote shared prosperity.
Selected fellows will spend January to June 2026 gaining exposure to WBG operations, engaging with policy leaders, and contributing to critical development projects in Africa and globally.
Benefits of WBG Africa Fellowship Program:
1. Fully Funded International Fellowship:
The fellowship covers all essential expenses, including a monthly stipend as a short-term consultant, along with round-trip airfare. It’s an ideal gateway for emerging African academics to gain international experience without financial burden.
2. Work at the World Bank:
Fellows will be placed in teams at the World Bank Group, where they will engage in real-world research, help shape economic policies, and support developmental goals.
3. Professional Mentorship:
Participants receive mentorship from experienced economists, researchers, and policymakers. This mentorship enhances both academic skills and career prospects, whether in international organizations, African governments, or think tanks.
4. Gender-Inclusive Opportunity:
The program strongly encourages women candidates to apply, aligning with the World Bank’s commitment to gender equality and inclusive participation.
5. Join a Global Network:
With over 300 fellows since its inception, this program builds a strong alumni network of African professionals making a difference in public policy, academia, and international development.
Eligibility Criteria:
To be considered for the 2026 World Bank Africa Fellowship, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
● Be a Sub-Saharan African national.
● Be under the age of 32 by the application deadline (August 25, 2025).
● Be enrolled in a PhD program or have completed a PhD within the last three years.
● Demonstrate strong quantitative and analytical skills.
● Possess excellent English language skills (spoken and written).
● Show a clear interest in development economics, policy-making, or international development.
This fellowship is open to applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, including (but not limited to) economics, public policy, agriculture, infrastructure, environment, education, health, and governance.
What Will Fellows Do?
During the six-month fellowship period, participants will:
● Work closely with World Bank professionals on real-time development operations.
● Conduct research and data analysis to inform project design and decision-making.
● Contribute to technical assistance, policy notes, and development reports.
● Engage with international experts in global economic and social policy.
● Learn how WBG functions internally across research, lending, and implementation.
● Fellows will be placed in units aligned with their expertise and interests, ensuring meaningful and relevant exposure.
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Selection Process:
The selection process is conducted in two phases:
Phase I Shortlisting of Candidates:
The WBG will review applications and create a shortlist based on qualifications, academic background, and alignment with WBG thematic priorities. Shortlisted candidates will be matched with relevant units at the World Bank Group.
Phase II Final Selection:
Each unit will conduct its own review and interviews (if required) to choose their final fellow. Selected candidates will receive an official offer and will be hired as short-term consultants for the 6-month assignment. All shortlisted applicants will be informed of their final status by the end of 2025.
How to Apply for the World Bank Africa Fellowship Program 2026?
The application process is entirely online. To apply:
1. Visit the Official Fellowship Page:
Check the World Bank's careers or fellowship page for official application instructions.
2. Prepare Your Documents:
● Updated CV or resume.
● Copy of PhD certificate or proof of enrollment.
● Statement of interest, highlighting your motivation and research experience.
● Academic transcripts (if requested).
● Recommendation letters (optional but beneficial).
3. Submit Application:
Complete the online application form before August 25, 2025. Ensure all sections are accurately filled out, and documents are uploaded in the specified format. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
Key Dates to Remember:
|
Event |
Date |
|
Application Deadline |
August 25, 2025 |
|
Shortlisting & Matching Period |
September – October 2025 |
|
Final Selection & Offers |
November – December 2025 |
|
Fellowship Starts |
January 2026 |
|
Fellowship Ends |
June 2026 |
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Tips for a Successful Application:
● Tailor your CV to highlight relevant research and policy experience
● Emphasize your interest in poverty reduction, Africa’s development, or international policy
● Clearly explain how your research aligns with the World Bank’s mission
● Highlight any leadership roles, publications, or awards
● If applicable, mention any prior work with international organizations or NGOs
Conclusion:
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 is more than just a fellowship it’s a launchpad for tomorrow’s African leaders in development, economics, and policy-making. With a fully funded six-month placement, access to international networks, and mentorship from global experts, it’s a rare and transformative opportunity. If you’re a young African PhD scholar with a passion for making an impact, don’t miss your chance to join the next cohort of the World Bank Group Africa Fellows. So to apply and know more visit World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 official link here.