AWF Launches 2026 Geospatial Leaders Fellowship to Train Next-Gen Conservation Tech Experts

A new fellowship is opening for young African professionals. The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) announced its Geospatial Leaders Fellowship for 2026. Applications are open now through January 15, 2026. The program aims to empower the next generation of spatial data experts.

This initiative directly addresses a critical skills gap in conservation technology across Africa. In partnership with global mapping leader ESRI, the fellowship offers ten months of intensive training and hands-on project work.

Program Offers Real-World Skills for Environmental Challenges

The fellowship is designed for early to mid-career professionals. Candidates must be aged 18-35 and citizens of specific African nations. According to AWF, priority goes to applicants from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, DRC, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Senegal, and Tunisia.

Applicants need a relevant degree and at least two years of experience. They must also work for an organization with clear GIS needs. This includes government agencies, NGOs, conservancies, or research institutions. The goal is to embed new skills directly into workplaces that protect nature.

Fellowship Bridges Tech and Conservation for Sustainable Impact

The curriculum focuses on applying geospatial science to real problems. Fellows will learn to use advanced GIS tools from ESRI. They will tackle projects like mapping ecosystems and modeling climate impacts. The training aims to guide sustainable development decisions across the continent.

This fellowship represents a strategic investment in Africa’s environmental future. It equips local experts with cutting-edge technology. These leaders can then drive conservation strategies from within their own communities and countries. The long-term impact could shape policy and protect biodiversity for decades.

The AWF Geospatial Leaders Fellowship 2026 is a pivotal opportunity for emerging professionals. It combines high-level technical training with a direct conservation mission. Eligible candidates are urged to apply before the January 15, 2026 deadline to advance their skills for Africa’s environment.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: What is the application deadline for the AWF GIS Fellowship?

The final deadline is Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 9:59 AM. All application materials must be submitted by this time to be considered for the 2026 cohort.

Q2: Which countries are eligible for the fellowship program?

Citizens from Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Uganda, DRC, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Senegal, Tunisia, and Kenya can apply. Priority is given to those working on projects within key African landscapes.

Q3: What kind of training do fellows receive?

Fellows get ten months of technical GIS training through ESRI, work on a real conservation project, and receive personalized mentorship. The program is designed for practical, high-impact skill development.

Q4: Who is the ideal candidate for this fellowship?

The ideal candidate has a related degree, over two years of experience, and works for an organization that needs GIS solutions. They should be actively involved in conservation action, research, or policy.

Q5: What are the benefits of completing this fellowship?

Graduates gain expert-level GIS skills, professional mentorship, and project experience. This significantly enhances their capacity to lead geospatial and conservation efforts within their home countries and organizations.