The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is inviting talented, motivated, and forward-thinking students and graduates to apply for its 2026 Internship Programme. This initiative provides a unique opportunity to gain professional experience within one of Africa’s leading development finance institutions. Through this programme, interns are immersed in the Bank’s vision of driving sustainable economic growth and social progress across the African continent.
Programme Overview
The AfDB Internship Programme aims to nurture the next generation of African leaders by offering practical exposure to the Bank’s operations, strategic priorities, and development initiatives. Interns will have the chance to work alongside seasoned professionals, contribute to meaningful projects, and gain hands-on experience in areas aligned with their academic backgrounds and career aspirations.
The programme also seeks to build a pool of qualified young professionals who could potentially join the Bank’s workforce in the future. Participants will develop valuable skills in research, analysis, project management, and policy implementation while learning in an environment that promotes innovation, diversity, and collaboration.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be nationals of one of the African Development Bank’s member countries.
- Be aged 30 years or younger by the end of December 2025.
- Possess at least a bachelor’s degree and be currently enrolled in a master’s program or have completed a master’s degree within the past year.
- Demonstrate proficiency in either English or French, with a working knowledge of the other language considered an advantage.
- Show a strong commitment to Africa’s development and a willingness to work in a multicultural environment.
Applicants with excellent communication skills, adaptability, and leadership potential will be given priority. The Bank particularly values candidates who are eager to learn, demonstrate integrity, and have a passion for sustainable development.
Areas of Focus
Internship placements will be offered across a wide range of departments within the Bank. Eligible fields of study and professional interest include:
- Energy, Climate Change, and Green Growth
- Agriculture and Human Development
- Private Sector and Industrialization
- Infrastructure Development
- Economic Research and Policy Analysis
- Finance and Accounting
- Governance and Institutional Reform
- Legal Affairs
- Information Technology and Digital Innovation
- Human Resources and Corporate Services
- Audit, Evaluation, and Anti-Corruption
- Communications, Media, and Public Relations
- Gender Equality, Inclusion, and Social Affairs
- Environmental and Social Sustainability
This diversity of disciplines ensures that interns can find opportunities that best match their academic focus and personal interests.
Internship Terms and Benefits
Internships may take place either at the Bank’s headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, or at one of its regional or country offices. Depending on operational requirements, remote placements may also be available.
Interns will receive a monthly stipend to support living expenses during the placement period, along with medical insurance coverage. The Bank will provide assistance with visa arrangements for those selected for on-site internships, although travel costs to and from the duty station will be the intern’s responsibility.
Interns may also have the opportunity to participate in official Bank missions and contribute to active projects, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges.
Application Process
The 2026 Internship Programme will be conducted in two sessions. For the first session, applications open on October 31 and close on November 14, 2025. Successful candidates will be notified by mid-December, and the internship will commence in January 2026.
Applicants are required to submit an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV), proof of enrollment in a master’s program (or a recent degree certificate), and a motivation letter explaining how their academic training and career goals align with the Bank’s mission. Strong emphasis is placed on clarity of purpose, commitment to development, and evidence of relevant skills or experiences.
Conclusion
The African Development Bank Internship Programme 2026 is more than just a work experience it is a transformative journey that enables young professionals to actively participate in Africa’s growth story. By engaging in high-impact projects, interns will enhance their competencies, broaden their perspectives, and contribute to shaping a prosperous and inclusive future for the continent.
