African Food Fellowship Opens Applications for 120 Food Systems Leaders in Kenya, Rwanda, and Zambia.
If you are a mid-career professional working to transform food systems in Africa, your next big opportunity has just arrived. The African Food Fellowship (AFF) has officially opened applications for its latest cohort, seeking 120 food systems leaders across Kenya, Rwanda, and for the very first time, Zambia.
This is more than a fellowship. It is a movement.
A Fellowship Built for Changemakers
The African Food Fellowship exists for one purpose: to develop bold, visionary leaders who are driving real, lasting change in Africa's food systems. Whether you are working to improve access to nutritious food, build climate-resilient agriculture, or unlock inclusive markets and trade, this fellowship was designed with you in mind.
With 40 spots available per country, the AFF is looking for mid-career professionals aged between 27 and 50 years, whose day-to-day work is already making an impact and who are ready to take that impact even further.
What Are the Impact Areas?
Applications are open to professionals working within the following focus areas:
Kenya
- Horticulture for Inclusive Markets
- Blue Economy for Food
- Access to Finance
Rwanda
- Access to Healthy and Nutritious Food
- Climate Smart Agriculture
- Inclusive Markets and Trade
Zambia (new this cohort!)
- Access to Healthy and Nutritious Food
- Resilient Food Systems
- Inclusive Markets and Trade
What the Fellowship Offers
Once accepted, fellows embark on the Food Systems Leadership Programme (FSLP) a rigorous, enriching 10-month journey that blends online learning with real-world engagement. Expect an average commitment of 4 hours per week, alongside peer assignments, informal meetups, and visits to fellow organizations and businesses across the continent.
In January 2027, all fellows will gather for a three-day in-person module hosted in their respective countries a powerful moment for connection, collaboration, and community.
Upon successful completion, fellows are awarded a prestigious Certificate jointly issued by Wageningen University & Research and Wasafiri Consulting, two of the world's leading institutions in food systems and leadership development. Fellows then continue their journey as part of vibrant national country networks because the learning never truly stops.
How to Apply
The application process is straightforward:
- Complete the application form for your country (Kenya | Rwanda | Zambia)
- Receive confirmation within one week of submitting
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to a 90-minute group interview
- Successful candidates receive a formal offer by end of June 2026
- Fellowship kicks off in September 2026
Apply early. A high volume of applications is expected.
Application Deadline: 26 April 2026, midnight EAT
A Note on Fees
The FSLP carries a programme fee of USD 1,000 (payable in two installments in local currency equivalent), plus a non-refundable enrollment fee of USD 100 applicable to all participants.
A limited number of need-based scholarships is available for those who qualify. Fellows are also encouraged to explore organizational funding and sponsorship options. Financial barriers should not stand between great leaders and this opportunity.
This Is Your Time
Africa's food systems are at a pivotal moment. The challenges are great, but so are the opportunities. The African Food Fellowship is investing in the leaders who will seize it.
If you are ready to sharpen your leadership, deepen your networks, and amplify your impact across the continent, do not wait.
Apply before 26 April 2026 and take your place among Africa's next generation of food systems leaders.
The African Food Fellowship is delivered in partnership with Wageningen University & Research and Wasafiri Consulting.
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