By Ismah Ayomide
The African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) is now accepting applications for the 2026 Leadership Programme for Emerging African Women in Agricultural Sciences.
This year-long fellowship is designed to build a strong pipeline of confident, competent and influential women leaders who will shape the future of food security and agricultural development across the continent.
What the programme offers:
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Fully funded fellowship: Covers the costs of all programme activities.
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Tailored training: Leadership, science, and research skills development.
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Mentorship: Guidance from established leaders in agriculture and related fields.
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Networking: Access to a vibrant community of professionals across Africa.
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Career growth: Support to amplify impact in agricultural research, policy, and development.
Who Can Apply:
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Female citizens of Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, or Zambia.
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Professionals working in agricultural research, policy, or related fields.
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Hold a Master’s degree in agriculture or related sciences.
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Early- to mid-career (minimum 3 years, maximum 15 years post-Master’s work experience).
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Committed to Africa’s agricultural transformation.
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Fluent in spoken and written English.
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Able to commit fully to the one-year programme, including workshops and mentorship.
Key Dates:
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Applications Open: September 1, 2025.
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Deadline: October 31, 2025, at 5:00 PM (East Africa Time).
Click here to apply.
Explore our Opportunity page for more.
The African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) is accepting applications for its 2026 Leadership Program for Emerging African Women in Agricultural Sciences. This year-long fellowship aims to cultivate a generation of confident and capable women leaders who will influence food security and agricultural development in Africa. The program is fully funded and includes tailored training in leadership, science, and research skills, mentorship from industry leaders, networking opportunities, and support for career growth in agricultural research and policy.
Eligible candidates are female citizens of Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, or Zambia, and must work in agricultural research, policy, or related fields. Applicants should hold a Master's degree in agriculture or related sciences, have early- to mid-career experience (3-15 years post-Master’s), be committed to Africa’s agricultural transformation, and be fluent in English. They must also be capable of dedicating themselves fully to the program's duration.
The application process opens on September 1, 2025, and closes on October 31, 2025, at 5:00 PM East Africa Time.
