Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship Program

The Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship Program supports early-to-mid-career professionals from African countries to spend 10 months in London working on an independent research project, building leadership skills, and expanding global networks. The fellowship offers a monthly stipend of £2,565, covers travel, visa, accommodation support, health surcharge, and research expenses, and is open to applicants with a BA degree (or equivalent) and research experience.

Overview

The Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship Program by Chatham House is a fully funded opportunity for early-to-mid-career professionals from Africa to spend ten months at Chatham House in London.

During the fellowship, participants develop and complete an independently designed research project, take part in a structured Leadership Masterclass Programme, and contribute to research activities that align with Chatham House’s work in international affairs.

This fellowship is ideal for professionals in academia, NGOs, government, civil society, business, and media who want to strengthen their research profile, leadership capacity, and international networks.

Key Details

• Program Name: Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship Program
• Host Organisation: Chatham House
• Location: London, United Kingdom
• Duration: 10 months
• Target Group: Early-to-mid-career professionals from African countries
• Main Focus: Research, leadership development, and international affairs
• Funding Type: Fully funded fellowship

Fellowship Objectives

The fellowship is designed to help participants:

• Complete an independent research project
• Strengthen leadership and professional skills
• Contribute to Chatham House research activities
• Build connections in global policy and international affairs
• Join a strong international professional network

It combines research, training, and mentorship in a highly respected policy and leadership environment.

What Fellows Will Do

Fellows are expected to spend the ten-month period focusing on three main areas:

Independent Research Project

Each fellow works on a self-designed research project relevant to their interests and aligned with Chatham House’s broader mission.

This allows fellows to deepen expertise in a chosen issue while producing meaningful research output in an international policy setting.

Leadership Masterclass Programme

A major part of the fellowship is the Leadership Masterclass Programme, which helps fellows build leadership confidence and practical professional skills.

It includes:

• Intensive induction week
• Thematic sessions on global challenges
• Leadership skills workshops
• Briefings with global experts
• Project presentations
• Personal development coaching
• Media training
• Optional career mentoring

This component is designed to strengthen both leadership ability and career readiness.

Contribution to Chatham House Research

Fellows also contribute to ongoing research activities connected to Chatham House’s mission and programmes, giving them exposure to high-level policy work and collaboration.

Fellowship Benefits

The fellowship provides strong financial and professional support.

Financial Support

Selected fellows receive:

• Monthly stipend: £2,565
  (to cover living costs in London, including accommodation, food, utilities, and local transport)

Additional Covered Costs

The fellowship also covers:

• Travel / relocation costs
• Accommodation support
• Visa fees
• Visa sponsorship (where required)
• UK Immigration Health Surcharge
• Research-related expenses, such as:
  • Fieldwork
  • Outreach
  • Events
  • Publications

This makes the fellowship a fully funded international opportunity for eligible African professionals.

Alumni and Network Benefits

After successfully completing the programme, fellows receive:

• Access to the Academy faculty and alumni network
• Five-year Chatham House membership

These benefits can provide long-term value through continued networking, collaboration, and professional visibility.

Who Can Apply?

The fellowship is open to early-to-mid-career professionals from Africa.

Eligible Applicants

Applicants must:

• Be a citizen of any African country
• Dual nationals are eligible if one nationality is from an African country
• Have completed a BA degree or equivalent
• Show experience in conducting research
• Have a clear interest in international affairs
• Work in a relevant field such as:
  • Academia
  • NGOs
  • Business
  • Government
  • Civil society
  • Media

Career Stage

The programme is intended for early-to-mid-stage professionals, rather than senior-level experts or recent beginners with no relevant experience.

Important Conditions

Applicants should note the following:

• There are no age restrictions
• The fellowship requires a full-time commitment
• Fellows cannot undertake other work or study during the programme

This means applicants should be prepared to dedicate themselves fully to the fellowship for the full ten months.

Why This Fellowship Stands Out

This is a strong opportunity because it offers:

• A prestigious international platform
• Time and support for independent research
• High-quality leadership training
• Exposure to global policy discussions
• Full financial support in London
• Long-term access to a respected professional network

For African professionals interested in research, public policy, leadership, or international affairs, this can significantly strengthen both career growth and global visibility.

Best Fit Applicants

This fellowship is especially suitable for:

• Policy researchers
• Civil society professionals
• NGO leaders
• Journalists and media professionals
• Government officers
• Academic researchers
• Social impact and governance professionals

Strong candidates will usually have:

• A clear research idea
• Some evidence of research ability
• Interest in international or regional issues
• Leadership potential
• A strong motivation to engage with global policy networks

FAQs

Who can apply for the Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship?

Citizens of any African country can apply, including dual nationals where one nationality is African.

Is the fellowship fully funded?

Yes. It includes a monthly stipend of £2,565 and also covers travel, visa, accommodation support, health surcharge, and research-related costs.

How long is the fellowship?

The fellowship lasts for 10 months.

Do I need a university degree?

Yes. Applicants must have completed a BA degree or equivalent.

Is research experience required?

Yes. Applicants must demonstrate experience in conducting research.

Are there any age limits?

No. There are no age restrictions.

Can fellows work or study during the programme?

No. The fellowship is full-time, and fellows cannot take on other work or study during the fellowship period.

What happens after the fellowship ends?

Successful fellows gain access to the Academy’s faculty and alumni network and receive five-year Chatham House membership.

Final Takeaway

The Chatham House Mo Ibrahim Foundation Academy Fellowship Program is an excellent fully funded opportunity for African early-to-mid-career professionals who want to strengthen their research, leadership, and international policy engagement.

With a 10-month placement in London, a £2,565 monthly stipend, and extensive support for travel, visa, and research costs, the fellowship is especially valuable for those looking to grow their impact in international affairs, policy, governance, civil society, and research.