Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026 (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference (YPC) 2026, a fully funded opportunity for young Africans passionate about shaping the future of public health across the continent. Organized by the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the Youth Pre-Conference serves as the official youth platform preceding the 5th International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2026).

The conference will bring together young health professionals, students, researchers, innovators, entrepreneurs, advocates, communicators, and community leaders from across Africa to exchange ideas, showcase innovative solutions, and contribute recommendations that will help inform discussions during CPHIA 2026. Participants will engage directly with policymakers, researchers, and public health leaders while expanding their professional networks and leadership skills.

The 2026 edition is centered on Africa CDC's Health Security and Sovereignty agenda, emphasizing African-led solutions for stronger health systems, improved preparedness, local manufacturing, research, innovation, and youth participation in health governance. Through collaborative discussions and practical engagement, the conference aims to empower the next generation of public health leaders to actively contribute to Africa's health future.

About the Youth Pre-Conference

The Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference is an annual initiative held immediately before the International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA). Since its launch, the programme has become one of Africa's leading youth engagement platforms for public health, providing young professionals and students with opportunities to contribute to continental health discussions and policy development.

YPC 2026 is designed as a working platform rather than simply a networking event. Participants will collaborate on developing practical recommendations for strengthening Africa's health systems while sharing experiences from research, innovation, entrepreneurship, community engagement, advocacy, and policy initiatives.

The conference also supports the implementation of Africa CDC's Youth Engagement Strategy (YES!Health), which seeks to promote meaningful youth participation in health decision-making across the continent. Participants will contribute ideas that can influence future policies, partnerships, and investments in Africa's public health ecosystem.

Sponsorship Benefits

Selected participants will receive comprehensive sponsorship, including:

• Round-trip flight tickets.
• Accommodation throughout the conference.
• Meals during the programme.
• Full registration for CPHIA 2026.
• Participation in the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference.
• Access to the International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2026).
• Opportunities to engage with African public health leaders.
• Networking with researchers, innovators, policymakers, and practitioners.
• Opportunities to showcase research, innovations, and community initiatives.
• Membership in a growing pan-African youth public health network.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy the following requirements:

• Be between 18 and 35 years old at the time of application.
• Be a citizen of an African Union Member State.
• Be enrolled in at least an undergraduate programme or possess relevant educational, professional, or community experience in public health or related fields.
• Demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to improving health outcomes.
• Be available to participate fully in both the Youth Pre-Conference and CPHIA 2026.
• Be willing to contribute actively to peer learning and cultural exchange throughout the programme.

Required Application Documents

Applicants should prepare the following:

• Completed online application form.
• Curriculum Vitae (maximum two pages).
• Passport biodata page.
• Any additional information requested in the application form.

Applications may be submitted in either English or French.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

• Leadership potential.
• Demonstrated commitment to improving public health.
• Contributions through research, advocacy, innovation, or community engagement.
• Professional or academic experience.
• Ability to contribute meaningfully to conference discussions.
• Interest in advancing Africa's health security and sovereignty agenda.

How to Apply

To apply for the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026:

1. Visit the official Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference application portal.
2. Carefully review the eligibility requirements.
3. Complete the online application form in English or French.
4. Upload your two-page CV and passport biodata page.
5. Provide any additional information requested.
6. Submit your application before the deadline.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow sufficient time for document preparation and review before the application portal closes.