The African Union Commission launched the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) – Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership Programme on 25 May 2020 in partnership with the Kofi Annan Foundation, following its approval by the Governing Board of Africa CDC in March 2018.

Fellows admitted in the programme are senior public health professionals from African Union Member States who will contribute to and lead the implementation of a new public health order for Africa, and in turn mentor and develop the next generation of public health leaders for the continent.

As we reflect on the remarkable progress of the Kofi Annan Fellowship in Global Health Leadership Programme, having graduated 39 Fellows from over 20 AU Member States and currently training 20 more from 14 Member States, we have witnessed the tangible impact of this visionary initiative. The programme’s alumni have not only honed their leadership qualities but are also actively shaping the future of healthcare across Africa. With some leading national programmes, others are replicating leadership programmes in their institutions, and some have taken up Government Ministerial positions, the ripple effect of this leadership program is undeniable.

Application for the 4th Cohort of the Fellowship programme is now open and the deadline for submission is 30th January, 2024. Africa CDC continue to encourage diversity of applicantions from across the AU Member States.  Cohort 4 will witness the introduction of Mental Health track, therefore Public Mental Health Professionals are encouraged to apply. In addition, staff in senior positions within Government Ministries and National Public Health Institutes (NPHIs) especially women are also strongly encouraged to apply.