Applications are now open for the Africa Epidemic Service (AES) Fellowship 2026 – Epidemiology Track, a prestigious fully funded public health training programme led by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) under the African Union. The fellowship is designed to develop the next generation of field epidemiologists capable of preventing, detecting, and responding to disease outbreaks across Africa.
The two-year fellowship combines classroom learning with extensive field experience, allowing fellows to build practical skills in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and data analysis. Through mentorship from experienced public health professionals, participants will contribute to strengthening health systems and epidemic preparedness across African Union Member States.
Details About Africa Epidemic Service Fellowship 2026
- Host Organization: Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC)
- Under: African Union
- Programme Track: Epidemiology
- Programme Duration: 2 Years
- Training Format: Classroom and Field-Based Training
- Eligible Countries: African Union Member States
- Funding: Fully Funded
What Makes This Fellowship Special?
The Africa Epidemic Service Fellowship is one of the African Union's flagship workforce development initiatives aimed at strengthening public health systems across the continent. Unlike traditional academic programmes, this fellowship emphasizes hands-on learning, enabling participants to gain real-world experience while working alongside public health experts.
The programme follows the One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Fellows receive continuous mentorship and practical training that prepares them to respond effectively to public health emergencies across Africa.
Fellowship Structure
The fellowship runs for two years, beginning with three months of classroom-based training in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, followed by twenty-one months of field placement at approved host institutions within African Union Member States. During this period, fellows participate in applied epidemiology activities such as disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, surveillance system evaluations, and data analysis while receiving guidance from experienced supervisors and mentors.
Financial Benefits
Africa CDC fully finances the fellowship to ensure participants can focus on their professional development without financial barriers.
Successful fellows receive support that includes travel expenses, accommodation during programme activities, learning materials, training resources, stipends, insurance, hardware, and the software and internet connectivity required for online learning.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should:
- Be citizens of an African Union Member State.
- Be under the age of 35 years.
- Be employed in an African country with approval from a government institution.
- Hold a graduate degree in Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, Environmental Sciences, or another public health discipline.
- Possess a Master of Public Health (MPH) or an equivalent qualification with epidemiology or quantitative research coursework.
- Have at least three years of recent full-time public health experience.
- Demonstrate proficiency in one of the African Union's working languages.
Please note that Advanced FETP Fellows and graduates are not eligible to apply.
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Valid passport from an African Union Member State.
- Government letter of support approving participation in the programme.
- Two professional recommendation letters.
- Bachelor's degree certificate and academic transcripts.
- Master's degree certificate and transcripts.
- Evidence of public health work experience.
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages).
- Motivation statement (maximum two pages).
- Additional supporting qualifications (optional).
How to Apply
Interested applicants should complete the official online application form and upload all required supporting documents before the application deadline. Applications that are incomplete or missing required documentation will not be considered.
Your motivation statement should clearly explain your professional background, why you wish to join the fellowship, and how the training will strengthen public health systems in your country. Applicants are also encouraged to demonstrate how the programme aligns with their long-term career goals and commitment to improving public health across Africa.
Why You Should Apply
The Africa Epidemic Service Fellowship offers an outstanding opportunity for young African public health professionals to receive advanced practical training while working with Africa CDC and public health institutions across the continent. Participants graduate with valuable technical expertise, leadership skills, and a strong professional network that can significantly enhance their careers and contribute to stronger epidemic preparedness in Africa.
Final Advice
Prepare your application carefully and ensure every required document is complete before submission. A strong motivation statement, solid public health experience, and a clear commitment to improving health outcomes in Africa can significantly strengthen your application.
APPLY NOW
Official Website: https://africacdc.org/?s=The+Africa+Epidemic+Services+-+Epidemiology+track+
