Kofi Annan Scholars Program 2026: African Union Commission Opens 20 Strategy Expert Roles Across Africa
The African Union Commission has announced a major recruitment drive for qualified professionals under the Kofi Annan Scholars Program, implemented by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
The initiative aims to strengthen public health systems across Africa by deploying skilled Strategy Development Experts through the African Volunteers Health Corps. A total of 20 positions are available, with deployment across various African countries based on member state needs.
Application Deadline
Interested candidates must submit their applications on or before April 2, 2026.
About the Program
The Kofi Annan Scholars Program is designed to enhance Africa’s health security by supporting governments and institutions in building resilient and effective public health systems. Through this program, experienced professionals will contribute to strategic planning, policy development, and institutional strengthening across the continent.
Role Overview: Strategy Development Expert
Selected candidates will work closely with national governments and public health institutions to develop and implement evidence-based strategies. These strategies may include workforce planning, emergency preparedness, and broader health system reforms.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct institutional assessments and situational analysis
- Identify gaps in policies, operations, and resource allocation
- Develop national and sector-specific strategies aligned with AU priorities
- Facilitate stakeholder consultations and planning sessions
- Design strategic frameworks, roadmaps, and implementation tools
- Produce policy briefs, reports, and technical documentation
- Support resource mobilization and partnership coordination
- Strengthen monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Master’s or PhD in Public Health, Health Policy, Strategic Planning, or related field
- At least 7 years of experience in strategic planning or public health systems
- Demonstrated experience developing national or institutional strategies
- Strong knowledge of African health systems and policy environments
- Experience working with Ministries of Health and development partners
- Excellent writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills
- Core Skills and Competencies
- Advanced policy analysis and strategic thinking
- Strong facilitation and multi-stakeholder coordination skills
- High adaptability in complex and diverse environments
- Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication abilities
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
Language Requirements
- Candidates must be proficient in at least one official African Union language, including English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish, or Swahili.
- Knowledge of additional languages is considered an advantage.
Contract Details
- Engagement is on an on-call basis depending on country needs
- Assignments are project-based and time-bound
- Deployment duration varies and is determined by Africa CDC and member states
Benefits
Successful candidates will receive:
- Competitive stipend during deployment
- Fully covered travel and accommodation
- Health insurance and additional allowances
- Access to professional development and mentorship programs
- Pan-African networking opportunities
- Certificate of recognition upon completion
Important Notes
- Applicants must complete the official AU CV template
- Required documents include academic certificates and a valid passport
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Female professionals are strongly encouraged to apply
How to Apply
Interested applicants should follow the official application link provided by the African Union Commission (available in the comment section of the original announcement).
