The African Union’s Information and Communication Directorate (ICD) has issued a final call for submissions to the third cycle of its prestigious AU Media Fellowship Programme, urging journalists, digital creators, and storytellers across the continent to seize the opportunity before applications close on August 14, 2025.
Launched under the umbrella of Agenda 2063—Africa’s blueprint for inclusive and sustainable development—the fellowship is designed to amplify authentic African narratives, empower media professionals, and strengthen storytelling that reflects the continent’s dynamism and diversity.
Fellowship overview and application details
Enter the third cohort of the AU Media Fellowship — a 12-month programme running from August 2025 to August 2026. Crafted for seasoned media professionals, bloggers, podcasters, vloggers, and digital content creators aged 25 and above with at least six years of experience, the fellowship supports cross-continental storytelling aligned with Agenda 2063’s key thematic pillars.
Applicants must be citizens of African Union member states, fluent in one of the AU’s official languages (English remains the working language), and show strong potential for innovation and impact in their media work. Freelancers must provide an endorsement from a senior editor; content creators require a professional reference.
Key application components:
- A comprehensive CV
- One-page cover letter outlining motivation and qualifications
- Story pitch (~200 words) aligned with one of six Agenda 2063 thematic tracks
- Two published work samples
- Endorsement/reference letter
- Confirmation of receipt after submission
Thematic tracks include:
- Economic Development & Regional Integration
- Emerging Economic Sectors: Sports & Creative Industries
- Agricultural Development & Environmental Management
- Promoting Good Governance
- Strengthening Africa’s Public Health Systems (Africa CDC sponsors five fellows)
- Infrastructure, Technology & Digital Innovation
What the fellowship offers
Selected fellows will benefit from:
- Certified training and masterclasses with reputable media institutions, including the BBC and Deutsche Welle
- Continental and international study tours
- One-on-one mentorship from seasoned professionals
- Opportunities to network with AU policymakers
- Production grants for pitch implementation
- Inclusion in the AU Media Fellowship alumni network
- Access to AU summits and leadership events
The fellowship’s design blends virtual induction and onboarding (Sept–Dec 2025), mentorship and summit engagements (Jan–Mar 2026), field-based study tours and workshop exchange (Apr–Jun 2026), followed by final presentations, certification, and closing ceremonies (Jul–Aug 2026).
A renewed call to action
This 2025 edition follows the success of previous cycles, including the second cohort launched in June, where twenty fellows were selected from over 6,000 applicants across the continent and diaspora. That cohort benefited from immersive study tours in South Africa, networking with AU organs, and media innovation sessions that reinforced the power of African-led storytelling.
Building on that momentum, the third cohort promises a new wave of impactful content creators ready to reshape narratives and drive progress across the continent.
Note to prospective applicants:
Don’t miss this final window—applications close on August 14, 2025. For submission guidelines and application materials, visit the official AU Media Fellowship portal to APPLY HERE.
