The African Academy for Women in Political Leadership is a fully funded, continental programme designed to build the next generation of women who govern Africa. Thirty women will be selected for a four-week blended programme combining virtual learning with a residential convening in Kigali.
The Academy is anchored in African leadership and ownership, and is positioned as a continental public good. It builds on the curriculum framework developed and validated through an inclusive co-design process held in Kigali in October 2025.
African Academy for Women in Political Leadership Benefits
- All programme costs, including tuition, travel, and accommodation for the residential convening, are fully covered for selected participants.
- High-impact virtual learning and an immersive residential convening in Kigali.
- Mentorship from senior African leaders.
- Applied leadership practice.
African Academy for Women in Political Leadership Eligibility Criteria
- Female citizen of an African Union Member State.
- Aged 21 or older at the time of nomination.
- Demonstrated active engagement in political leadership or political ambition.
- Formal endorsement from a government institution, recognised political party, NGO or relevant stakeholder.
- Commitment to full participation in the programme and to post-Academy alumni engagement and peer mentoring.
How to Apply for African Academy for Women in Political Leadership?
- Submit an official nomination or endorsement letter, signed by an authorised senior official, political party leader, NGO or recognised stakeholder.
- Include the nominee’s curriculum vitae (maximum two pages).
- Include a personal statement from the nominee (maximum 1,000 words).
- Apply online via the provided link.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the African Academy for Women in Political Leadership. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the African Academy for Women in Political Leadership?
It is a fully funded, continental programme designed to build the next generation of women who govern Africa. It combines virtual learning with a residential convening in Kigali, and is anchored in African leadership and ownership.
Who can apply for the Academy?
Applications are open to women who are currently holding, or credibly pursuing, elected or appointed political office anywhere in Africa. Eligible profiles include electoral cycle leaders, sitting political leaders, and young women leaders aged 21–35.
What are the eligibility criteria?
Applicants must be female citizens of an African Union Member State, aged 21 or older, with demonstrated active engagement in political leadership or political ambition. They need a formal endorsement from a government institution, political party, NGO, or relevant stakeholder.
Is the programme fully funded?
Yes, all programme costs, including tuition, travel, and accommodation for the residential convening, are fully covered for selected participants.
How many participants are selected?
Thirty women will be selected for the inaugural cohort. Selection is merit-based and continentally balanced, with representation from all five African regions and a maximum of two participants per country.
What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline for applications is 15 May 2026. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.
How do I apply?
Government ministries, political parties, AU member state institutions, and civil society organisations can submit nominations. Self-nominations supported by an institutional endorsement are also welcome. Apply online via the provided link.
What documents are required for the application?
Each nomination package must include an official nomination or endorsement letter signed by an authorised senior official, the nominee’s curriculum vitae (maximum two pages), and a personal statement from the nominee (maximum 1,000 words).
What does the programme curriculum cover?
The curriculum covers political leadership and governance, strategic communications, coalition-building and legislative processes, campaign and political financing, and ethical leadership and inclusive governance.
Who are the partners behind the Academy?
The Academy is a collaboration between the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the African School of Governance (ASG), the African Union Commission (AUC), and the African Women Leaders Network (AWLN).
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