Resilient Africa Fellowship Programme (RAFP)

Resilient Africa Fellowship Programme (RAFP) 

Background

Africa is at the forefront of the climate crisis, experiencing severe impacts despite contributing minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions. The continent faces threats to lives, livelihoods, economies, and ecosystems, compounded by its heavy reliance on climate-sensitive sectors like agriculture, and critical gaps in financial, technical, and infrastructural capacities.

To address these challenges, Africa has taken significant steps toward climate adaptation. The Africa Adaptation Acceleration Program (AAAP), a joint initiative by the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), and endorsed by the African Union (AU), aims to climate-proof $25 billion in investments by 2025. This commitment demonstrates Africa's dedication to leading its adaptation agenda and ensuring a resilient, sustainable future.

In alignment with this momentum, GCA is launching the Resilient Africa Fellowship Programme (RAFP). This programme will identify, support, and elevate African climate leadership, fostering a new generation of climate adaptation experts who will play a critical role in shaping policy, influencing negotiations, and driving adaptation efforts across the continent and globally.

Purpose of the Fellowship Programme

The GCA Fellowship Programme seeks to build a network of African climate adaptation leaders who can influence regional and international climate adaptation efforts. Fellows will strengthen policy development, contribute to Africa's leadership in global climate negotiations, and ensure that African priorities are effectively represented in international climate frameworks.

Duration: 1 year, with the possibility of extension based on performance.

Fellowship Tracks and Distinctions

1. Fellow (Emerging Adaptation Leader)

•       Eligibility: 5–9 years of professional experience in climate policy, adaptation implementation, or related fields.

•       Role: Fellows will support technical advisory work, contribute to policy briefs, and participate in GCA-led capacity-building activities.

•       Outcome: Skill-building and leadership development in global adaptation policy.

•       Remuneration: USD 10,000 annually.

2. Senior Fellow (Advanced Practitioner)

•       Eligibility: 10–14 years of experience with demonstrated regional or international engagement in climate adaptation.

•       Role: Senior Fellows will lead strategic advisory outputs, mentor junior fellows, and support the design of adaptation programmes such as AAAP 2.0.

•       Outcome: Strengthened regional leadership and integration into high-level adaptation initiatives.

•       Remuneration: USD 15,000 annually.

3. Distinguished Fellow (Recognition of Exceptional Leadership)

•       Eligibility: Minimum of 15 years of experience with a significant track record in shaping climate adaptation policy at the continental or global level. Fellows must have held high-level roles.

•       Role: Distinguished Fellows will serve as thought leaders, participate in global platforms, co-design flagship programmes, and represent African perspectives in international fora.

•       Remuneration: USD 20,000 annually for active engagement.

Eligibility Criteria (All Tracks)

• Must be a national of an African country.

• Demonstrated understanding of the international climate policy landscape.

• Proven commitment to climate adaptation and resilience building.

• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

Support Components
Fellows will receive:

• Access to GCA’s knowledge networks and technical resources.

• Participation in international policy forums and negotiations.

• Strategic media and visibility support.

• Quarterly mentoring and progress reviews.

• Inclusion in the design and rollout of the Africa Adaptation Acceleration Programme (AAAP 2.0).

Expected Impact
The Fellowship Programme aims to achieve the following outcomes:

• Empowered African leaders driving climate adaptation at multiple governance levels.

• Enhanced inclusion of African priorities in international climate frameworks.

• Stronger technical advisory support for African negotiators and policymakers.

• Increased public and media awareness of African climate leadership.

Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by May 25th, 2025.

How to Apply
To apply for the Fellowship Programme, interested candidates must submit a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) along with a cover letter outlining their experience, qualifications, and how they meet the fellowship criteria. The application must be submitted through the official GCA website by the deadline mentioned above.

Successful candidates will be notified ideally by end of May and are expected to commence the Fellowship in early June.