World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program. The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 is now open for Ph.D. candidates and recent graduates from Sub-Saharan Africa. This fully funded six-month consultancy offers hands-on development experience at the WBG headquarters or a country office. Women are strongly encouraged to apply. Read more about eligibility, benefits, and how to apply for this prestigious international opportunity.
Table of Contents
Background & Job Description
The World Bank Group (WBG) Africa Fellowship Program 2026 offers an exclusive, fully paid opportunity for emerging African scholars pursuing careers in international development. Aimed at Ph.D. candidates and recent Ph.D. holders from Sub-Saharan Africa, the program is a key initiative under the WBG’s broader goal to foster inclusive growth and reduce poverty.
Participants will spend six months (January to June 2026) working closely with WBG experts at the headquarters in Washington, D.C. or at select country offices. Fellows will contribute to frontline research, policy development, technical assistance, and operational lending activities—directly impacting global development strategies.
This fellowship is part of WBG’s mission to create a sustainable talent pipeline from Africa. It is not merely a training program—it is a high-level consultancy engagement where fellows work as short-term consultants within the WBG, receiving competitive compensation and round-trip travel support.
Tasks
Fellows will be embedded in WBG operational teams, taking on duties that may include:
- Conducting economic research and policy analysis
- Supporting lending operations and project implementation
- Providing technical assistance to WBG clients and stakeholders
- Contributing to the design and evaluation of development interventions
- Participating in the development and dissemination of knowledge products
- Engaging in institutional capacity building across African countries
- Collaborating on cross-sectoral themes such as climate, gender, governance, and education
Assignments will align with the fellow’s area of specialization and the needs of specific WBG units.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
To be eligible, candidates must:
- Be enrolled in the final year of a Ph.D. program or have completed a Ph.D. within the last three years (by the application deadline)
- Hold a specialization in disciplines aligned with the WBG’s mission—this may include economics, development studies, public policy, finance, education, health, infrastructure, agriculture, environmental science, and related fields
Experience
- Applicants must demonstrate strong quantitative and analytical skills, supported by academic publications, doctoral research, or policy work
- Must have excellent written and spoken English proficiency
- Applicants must be under the age of 32 at the time of application submission
- Prior research or policy experience related to international development is considered an asset
- Women and those from underrepresented regions are strongly encouraged to apply
World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program
Additional Information
Fellowship Duration and Compensation
- The fellowship runs from January to June 2026
- Fellows are hired as short-term consultants with a monthly consultancy fee
- Round-trip economy-class airfare will be provided to Washington, D.C. or the designated WBG country office
Selection Process
The fellowship follows a two-phase selection process:
Phase I: Shortlisting
- Eligible applications are reviewed based on academic background, technical expertise, and alignment with WBG operational areas
- A shortlist of candidates is compiled and shared with relevant WBG units
Phase II: Final Selection
- Units within the World Bank conduct interviews and select fellows based on fit and program needs
- Successful candidates are notified and offered short-term consultancy contracts
Shortlisted applicants not selected may still be considered for future roles or internships, depending on availability and fit.
Application Timeline
The application window is expected to open shortly after this announcement. Interested candidates should prepare:
- A current CV highlighting academic, research, and professional experience
- A concise cover letter expressing interest and alignment with WBG development goals
- Proof of Ph.D. enrollment or completion
- A sample research paper or policy brief (optional but recommended)
Apply Now to Shape Africa’s Development Future
The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program 2026 is more than a stepping stone—it is a career-defining experience for young African scholars seeking to shape policy and drive progress on the continent. The six-month placement provides real-world exposure to global development work at one of the world’s leading financial institutions.
If you’re a high-achieving Ph.D. candidate or recent graduate from Sub-Saharan Africa with a passion for development, this is your chance to contribute to meaningful change.
To apply, visit the official World Bank Africa Fellowship Program website once applications open.
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Disclaimer
This job listing has been republished by a third-party platform for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with the World Bank Group or any related entities. Always verify all information and submit applications through the official WBG application portal.
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