Empowering Africa's Public Health Heroes: A Call to Action!
In the face of diverse public health challenges across Africa, a well-prepared and skilled workforce is our greatest defense. The Africa Health Security and Sovereignty Agenda (AHSS) has issued a clarion call for a self-sustaining health security program, and we're answering with a bold initiative.
The Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship: Unlocking Potential, Saving Lives
This fellowship is designed to nurture a cadre of African public health experts, empowering them to lead and coordinate emergency responses whenever and wherever needed. We're talking about timely detection, swift action, and a resilient public health system.
But here's where it gets controversial... or at least, where the real work begins. We want to ensure that this fellowship is not just a theoretical exercise, but a practical, hands-on journey that equips fellows with the skills to make a tangible difference back home.
Goals and Objectives:
- Provide fellows with cutting-edge knowledge on public health emergency management and the role of Public Health Emergency Operations Centers (PHEOCs).
- Deepen their understanding of PHEOCs' role in various emergency scenarios.
- Build their skills to manage PHEOC functions and lead emergency responses.
- Establish a sustainable PHEM program across the African continent.
Fellowship Overview:
The PHEM Fellowship is tailored for mid-career African public health professionals with experience in PHEOC management or emergency preparedness and response. Over six months, fellows will undergo a rigorous training program, structured mentorship, hands-on experience, and technical assistance, drawing on the successful US-CDC PHEM Fellowship model.
Training Structure:
- In-Person Training: 14 weeks of intensive classes, paired with experienced mentors.
- Study Tours: 2 weeks visiting PHEOCs within and outside Africa.
- Field Placements: 4 weeks of hands-on experience in PHEOCs and emergency settings.
- Project Completion: 4 weeks for project work, evaluations, and graduation.
Who Should Apply:
Mid-level public health professionals with experience managing public health emergency operations or leading emergency preparedness programs. Applicants must be citizens of an African Union Member State, aged 50 or younger by July 31, 2026, and hold a postgraduate degree in public health or a related field. They should be full-time government employees working in public health in Africa, with the potential to implement impactful PHEM programs upon return.
Selection Process:
An independent committee comprising experts from the African Union Commission, Africa CDC, and technical partners will conduct a merit-based selection, ensuring equal opportunity and representation of underrepresented groups.
Important Note:
We strongly encourage applications from less-represented countries within the African Union. These countries include Algeria, Benin, Botswana, and many more (see the full list in the brochure).
Key Dates:
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
- Successful Applicants Notified: May 2026
- Fellowship Start Date: June 2026
For detailed information, download the brochure and apply via the link provided. Let's join forces to strengthen Africa's public health resilience!
Download Brochure: [Brochure Link]
Apply Now: [Application Link]
Closing Date: 31 March 2026
Region: Africa
Country: Open to all African Union Member States
