African Development Bank (AfDB) is offering paid, full-time Internships for students and recent graduates from AfDB member countries. Apply Now

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The African Development Bank (AfDB) has opened applications for its 2026 Internship Programme (Session 1), offering a transformative opportunity for young professionals to gain practical experience in international development. This internship is tailored for individuals who are passionate about contributing to Africa’s growth while developing their own skills and career pathways.

African Development Bank (AfDB) is offering paid, full-time Internships for students and recent graduates from AfDB member countries. Apply Now

Purpose of the Internship

The programme aims to provide students and recent graduates with exposure to the Bank’s work, operations, and development priorities. It helps interns acquire hands-on experience in a multicultural and dynamic environment, while also building a pipeline of talented professionals who may later join the institution in full-time roles.

The AfDB Internship Programme also strengthens the Bank’s visibility and mission of driving sustainable economic growth and social progress across its Regional Member Countries.

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Duration, Location, and Structure

Session 1 of the 2026 internships will commence in January 2026 and run for a period of three to six months. Interns will be placed either at the Bank’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, at one of its regional offices across Africa, or through remote arrangements depending on the department’s needs.

The programme offers a monthly stipend to eligible participants and medical insurance coverage during the internship period. While the Bank does not cover travel expenses to and from the duty station, it ensures that interns have access to valuable mentorship and professional guidance throughout their placement.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible, applicants must:

Be nationals of an AfDB Regional Member Country.
Be 30 years old or younger by 31 December 2025.
Be currently enrolled in a Master’s degree programme or have completed one within the past year.
Be fluent in English or French, with working knowledge of the other language considered an advantage.
Demonstrate academic excellence, adaptability, and a keen interest in Africa’s development issues.

Preferred fields of study include economics, finance, agriculture, infrastructure development, energy, law, climate change, human development, communications, and information technology.

Why This Internship Matters

The AfDB internship is more than a work experience — it is a gateway to Africa’s leading financial institution for development. Interns will learn how major regional projects are conceived, financed, and managed. They will contribute to real initiatives aligned with the Bank’s strategic priorities, such as Feed Africa, Integrate Africa, Industrialize Africa, Light Up and Power Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for the People of Africa.

For young Africans seeking to understand how global institutions operate and influence policy across the continent, this internship is a significant step. It equips participants with international exposure, professional networks, and practical skills that can lead to future opportunities in organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, and regional development agencies.

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Application Details

Applications for the 2026 Session 1 Internship Programme are open from 31 October 2025 to 14 November 2025. Interested candidates should prepare their CV, a cover letter explaining their motivation to join the AfDB, and proof of enrolment or recent graduation from a Master’s programme.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted in December 2025 for final selection, and successful interns will begin their assignments in January 2026.

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How to Stand Out

To increase your chances of selection:

Align your motivation letter with the AfDB’s strategic goals.
Showcase teamwork, innovation, and leadership experience.
Emphasize relevant coursework, research, or community projects.
Demonstrate your commitment to Africa’s socio-economic development.

Final Thoughts

The African Development Bank Internship Programme 2026 is an invaluable opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to Africa’s progress. Whether through research, project management, or policy support, interns play an active role in shaping a better future for the continent.

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