Applications are open for the IGAD Leadership Academy’s (ILA) Leadership Development Training, a transformative program designed to equip emerging leaders with the necessary skills to shape the future of governance and leadership in the IGAD region. This initiative, supported by the Government of Japan, will run in three cohorts throughout 2025, offering young visionaries an opportunity to develop their leadership capabilities.

The IGAD Leadership Academy was established to nurture and empower the next generation of leaders with essential competencies required to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving, diverse African society. The Academy was officially endorsed by the IGAD Heads of State and Government during the summit held on July 5, 2022, in Nairobi, Kenya. Rooted in the philosophy that Africa’s unique challenges require locally driven solutions, ILA is committed to cultivating ethical, visionary, and gender-inclusive leadership. The Academy is based at the Kenya School of Government’s Mombasa campus and focuses on training, mentorship, and peer-learning to foster the development of future leaders.

This comprehensive leadership training program is tailored for individuals who are passionate about driving meaningful change in their communities and the broader IGAD region. Participants will undergo a rigorous learning experience that integrates African leadership philosophies with globally recognized best practices. The training will cover critical areas such as good governance, peacebuilding, technological advancements, and gender-responsive leadership. Through interactive sessions led by seasoned experts, policymakers, and mentors, participants will gain strategic insights and practical skills to tackle governance challenges effectively.

The program offers an opportunity to develop advanced leadership skills, engage with leading experts in governance, and join an extensive network of like-minded changemakers. Participants will also become part of the ILA Alumni Network, where they can collaborate, exchange ideas, and explore innovative solutions to shared regional challenges.

This initiative is open to young leaders and women from IGAD member states, including Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. Eligible applicants should be between 18 and 35 years old and hold a bachelor’s degree or possess relevant experience in governance, leadership, or related fields. Since the training will be conducted in English, proficiency in the language is required. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical leadership, regional collaboration, and sustainable development, as well as an active involvement in initiatives that positively impact their communities. Applicants should have proven leadership experience, excellent communication and problem-solving skills, and be willing to travel to Kenya for the training. Furthermore, selected participants are expected to remain engaged with ILA activities throughout the year and contribute to the Alumni Network’s peer-learning and collaboration efforts.

To apply, candidates must submit a detailed resume (not exceeding three pages) along with a motivation letter (up to 1,000 words) outlining their leadership aspirations, previous leadership roles, the impact they have made in their community or country, a leadership challenge they wish to address in the IGAD region, and how they intend to apply the knowledge gained from ILA to solve such challenges. Additionally, applicants must provide two recommendation letters from professional or academic referees.

Interested individuals should send their applications via email to ILA@igad.int with the subject line “ILA 2025 TRAINING.” The deadline for submission is April 5, 2025. Shortlisted candidates will undergo virtual interviews before the final selection.