Nelson Mandela Essay Prize 2026 in Africa

The Nelson Mandela Essay Prize Competition 2026 is an inaugural initiative by Academics Stand Against Poverty (ASAP) and partners, inviting young African scholars to write essays proposing innovative solutions to pressing continental and global governance challenges. It provides a platform for African voices to influence global discussions.

Applicants must be citizens of African countries. Joint submissions by two eligible authors are accepted. The competition is open to young African scholars addressing themes like climate change, economic empowerment, healthcare, education, digital transformation, gender equality, and peace and security.

Winners share a USD 5,000 prize pool. Up to three or four essays will be selected. Benefits include cash prizes, a one-year ASAP fellowship with mentoring and networking opportunities (optional), and presentation of winning essays at the Yale Global Justice Program conference.

The submission deadline is 14 June 2026. Essays must be emailed to [email protected] by this date, including the essay title and university or organization affiliation.

Essays must be 4,000–8,000 words, follow Journal ASAP formatting guidelines, and be anonymized for blind review. They should focus on one or more eligible themes such as climate change resilience, economic empowerment, healthcare systems, education, digital transformation, gender equality, or peace and security.

Essays undergo blind review by the competition panel. They are judged on originality, clarity, and actionable proposals. Winners are chosen for their potential to influence global governance and poverty alleviation.

Yes, joint submissions by two eligible authors are accepted. Both authors must be citizens of African countries and meet the competition’s eligibility criteria.

The one-year ASAP fellowship is an optional benefit for winners, offering mentoring, internship, and networking opportunities. It aims to support emerging scholars in their research and professional development.

Winning essays will be presented at the Yale Global Justice Program conference. This provides international exposure and a platform for scholars to share their ideas with a global audience.

Submit your essay by emailing it to [email protected] by 14 June 2026. Include the essay title and your university or organization affiliation in the email. Ensure the essay is anonymized and follows Journal ASAP guidelines.