The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship Program is a life-changing and career-defining opportunity for brilliant young professionals from Sub-Saharan Africa to gain first-hand experience working at one of the world’s most influential international institutions. Designed for highly motivated PhD candidates and recent PhD graduates, this competitive fellowship provides unparalleled exposure to global policy and development frameworks, granting access to cutting-edge research, data, policy engagement, and impact-driven work in a multicultural and high-performance environment.
This fast-track initiative is part of the World Bank’s commitment to identifying and empowering Africa’s brightest talent to shape the continent’s development discourse. Fellows work with World Bank operational teams and global units, contribute to flagship publications, and play key roles in high-level analytical tasks. They are mentored by World Bank professionals and immersed in the culture of results-driven development finance and research.
This is not just a fellowship; it is a global platform to refine ideas, lead innovation, and influence policies that impact millions. Whether you are passionate about macroeconomics, climate change, governance, finance, poverty alleviation, or digital development, the World Bank Group Africa Fellowship is the ultimate launchpad for an impactful international career.
This opportunity is more than just a professional enhancement — it is a direct pipeline to influencing the future of Africa. Past fellows have transitioned into long-term roles within the World Bank and other multilateral organizations, universities, and global think tanks. The real-world impact and the networks built during this fellowship are priceless.
Africa stands at a critical juncture. With mounting global challenges such as climate change, youth unemployment, energy poverty, and food insecurity, the continent needs bold thinkers and solution-makers now more than ever. The World Bank Group Africa Fellowship is your chance to step forward, be counted, and shape a future that generations will thank you for.
This year’s call for applications is your once-in-a-lifetime shot to make that dream a reality. If you’re passionate about Africa’s progress and have the academic firepower to match, don’t hesitate. You might be the next change agent the World Bank is looking for.
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible:
1. Be a national of a Sub-Saharan African country.
2. Be enrolled in a PhD program or have completed a PhD in a relevant discipline (economics, education, public health, agriculture, infrastructure, climate, etc.).
3. Have a strong quantitative and analytical background.
4. Demonstrate an excellent command of English (both written and oral).
5. Be younger than 32 years of age at the time of application.
6. Possess a passion for international development and a commitment to Africa’s economic transformation.
7. Have a proven record of academic excellence and a track record of relevant research, publications, or policy work.
8. Be available to work at the World Bank Group offices in Washington, D.C. or country offices for the duration of the fellowship.
9. Have no prior employment history with the World Bank Group.
10. Be open to feedback, collaborative teamwork, and culturally diverse environments.
Duration/Stipend
Fellows will be engaged for a period of six months, with the possibility of extension depending on the availability of projects and performance evaluation. Selected fellows receive a competitive salary (stipend) for the duration of the program, along with travel and accommodation support if placed at headquarters. They are provided with full access to World Bank resources, mentorship from senior researchers and professionals, and the opportunity to contribute to key research publications or projects that shape development in Africa.
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