The AFRIKA KOMMT! fellowship is a career development initiative launched in 2008 by German industry in cooperation with the German government. It places young African professionals in leading German companies for a one-year transformational experience, combining hands-on work, leadership training, and immersion in German corporate culture.
The programme seeks highly motivated Africans who wish to expand their professional skills, gain international exposure, and contribute unique perspectives to German businesses. Fellows come from diverse sectors including healthcare, technology, cybersecurity, pharmaceuticals, and artificial intelligence.
Since its inception, the fellowship has trained over 417 professionals from 31 African countries, partnering with 34 German companies. The initiative fosters long-term economic and social ties between Africa and Germany, while providing companies with local insights and skilled talent.
The 15th intake for 2026/2027 offers 35 positions across seven partner companies. Applications from young Kenyan professionals close on March 22, 2026, with interested candidates directed to the AFRIKA KOMMT! official website for details.
The German Embassy in Nairobi has opened applications for the 15th intake of the prestigious AFRIKA KOMMT! fellowship, offering young Kenyan professionals the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in leading German companies for one year.
The programme, a joint initiative of German industry and the German government, seeks to build a new generation of African leaders while strengthening economic and social ties between Africa and Germany. For the 2026/2027 intake, 35 positions are available across seven partner companies. Applications close on March 22, 2026.
“Looking for your next career opportunity? The AFRIKA KOMMT! Fellowship offers young professionals hands-on experience in leading German companies, plus leadership development. Apply by March 22,” the Embassy said on its official social media platforms.
Fellows placed through the initiative receive immersive training in their respective sectors while participating in structured leadership development programmes. Beyond technical skills, participants gain exposure to German corporate culture and networking opportunities that can shape their careers.
“AFRIKA KOMMT! provides young, talented African professionals with a one-year career and life-transformational experience,” the programme’s website states. “It seeks extraordinary individuals who wish to expand their skills, knowledge, and experience, and are ready to step outside their comfort zones.”
Kenya currently has several professionals enrolled in the programme. Dennis Munene is gaining experience in the healthcare sector, while Margaret Ndungu focuses on cybersecurity. Fellows from neighbouring countries also participate, including Brenda Naddamba from Uganda in pharmaceuticals, sales, and marketing, and Anthony Soronnadi from Nigeria specialising in artificial intelligence.
Since its inception in 2008, AFRIKA KOMMT! has engaged over 417 African professionals from 31 countries, collaborating with 34 German companies across diverse sectors. The initiative aims not only to train fellows but also to provide companies with local insights, expertise, and innovative perspectives from African talent, generating mutual economic and social benefits.
The fellowship is part of Germany’s broader strategy to foster strong partnerships with Africa through education, skills development, and professional exchange. Over the years, the programme has built a network of more than 380 alumni, many of whom now occupy leadership positions in their home countries and contribute to German-African cooperation in business, technology, and social development.
Participants are required to demonstrate professional excellence, a willingness to learn in a cross-cultural environment, and a commitment to contributing to their communities and sectors upon return. Training fields range from technology, engineering, and healthcare to hospitality, marketing, and industrial management.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to visit the official AFRIKA KOMMT! website for detailed eligibility criteria and application procedures. The fellowship provides not only career advancement but also cultural exchange, allowing young Africans to build international networks and gain experience in one of Europe’s most advanced economies.
More Read
The 2026/2027 programme is expected to continue the tradition of fostering leadership, professional growth, and long-term engagement between Germany and Africa, reinforcing the continent’s capacity to contribute to global industry while nurturing homegrown talent.
