The AFRIKA KOMMT! Initiative Fellowship is a fully funded, one-year professional development programme in Germany designed for high-potential young professionals from across Africa. Backed by leading German companies and implemented by Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, the initiative focuses on strengthening long-term economic cooperation between Germany and African countries.
For the 15th intake (2026–2028 cycle), selected fellowship positions have been reopened, offering new opportunities for eligible candidates in specific countries and sectors.
WhatsApp ChannelWhat is AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship?
AFRIKA KOMMT! is a non-degree, practice-oriented fellowship that embeds selected participants into German companies while offering structured training and intercultural exposure.
Launched in 2008 by a consortium of German firms, the programme aims to strengthen business ties and develop future African leaders through hands-on corporate experience.
Participants spend one year in Germany, combining professional placement with formal training and networking opportunities.
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Open Fellowship Positions (2026 Intake)
For the current cycle, three fellowship profiles have been reopened at Robert Bosch GmbH.
Available Roles:
- Fellow as Product Specialist within the African Mobility Aftermarket Team
- Fellow in Technical Market Access
- Fellow as Sales & Marketing Specialist for Industrial Boilers
Eligibility for Reopened Positions:
- Open to candidates from Morocco, South Africa, and Egypt (based on profile requirements)
Deadline:
- May 10, 2026 (23:59 CET)
Applicants who submitted earlier applications do not need to reapply, as their submissions remain under consideration.
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Key Programme Highlights
- One-year fully funded stay in Germany
- 8-month placement in a German partner company
- Intensive German language training (before and during the programme)
- Leadership and management training modules
- Study tours and professional networking events
- Alumni network and continued engagement
The programme integrates corporate experience with structured learning to build cross-cultural competencies and management skills.
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Financial Benefits and Coverage
The AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship is fully funded by participating German companies, covering all major expenses.
What the Fellowship Covers:
- Round-trip international airfare
- Visa and relocation support
- Accommodation throughout the programme
- Monthly stipend and internship salary
- Health, accident, and liability insurance
- German language courses
- Training and programme-related travel
Fellows typically receive a monthly allowance during training phases and a salary during company placement, ensuring a stable standard of living in Germany.
Programme Structure
The fellowship follows a three-phase model:
1. Selection and Preparation
- Online application and screening
- Interviews and assessment centre
- Pre-departure German language training
2. One-Year Stay in Germany
- Intensive language course
- Three management training modules
- 8-month corporate placement
- Study tours and networking
3. Alumni Phase
- Continued networking and refresher training
- Implementation of change initiatives in home countries
This structure ensures both immediate professional development and long-term impact.
Eligibility Criteria of AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship 2026
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Citizenship of an African country
- University degree in a relevant field
- 2–5 years of professional work experience
- Strong English language proficiency
- Maximum age of 35 years
While German language skills are not mandatory at the time of application, candidates must be willing to learn.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online during the official application window.
Steps to Apply:
- Review eligibility criteria
- Select up to two fellowship profiles
- Complete the online application in English
- Submit required documents, including:
- Motivation presentation
- Change initiative proposal
- Academic and professional certificates
Shortlisted candidates are invited to a two-day assessment centre, which determines final selection.
Application Timeline (2026 Intake)
- Main Application Period: 16 February – 22 March 2026
- Reopened Application Window (Selected Profiles): Until 10 May 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Selection Feedback: Within 8–12 weeks after the final deadline
- Programme Start: November 2026 (Germany)
The next full application cycle is expected to open in February 2027.
Why AFRIKA KOMMT! Stands Out
AFRIKA KOMMT! differs from traditional fellowships by focusing on industry-based training instead of academic study. It combines:
- Direct exposure to German corporate environments
- Structured leadership development
- Cross-cultural professional experience
The programme has already trained 400+ professionals from over 30 African countries, many of whom contribute to economic development and international business collaboration.
Fields and Fellowship Placements
Participants are placed in diverse sectors, including:
- Information technology and data science
- Engineering and manufacturing
- Finance and consulting
- Healthcare and life sciences
- Sustainability and business transformation
Partner companies include major German firms, offering exposure to real-world business operations.
Why You Should Consider This Fellowship
- The fellowship is not a degree programme and does not lead to a Master’s or PhD
- It is designed for early-career professionals, not students
- Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and a clear career trajectory
The AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship remains a competitive, fully funded professional programme connecting Africa and Germany through corporate collaboration and leadership development. The reopening of selected 2026 fellowship positions reflects continued demand for skilled professionals and targeted expertise in key industries.
