Global Mental Health Africa Conference (GMHAC) Scholarship 2027 (Funded)

Applications are now open for the Global Mental Health Africa Conference (GMHAC) Scholarship 2027, a funded opportunity that enables African mental health professionals, researchers, students, advocates, and individuals with lived experience to participate in one of the continent's leading mental health conferences. The scholarship is jointly offered by the Science for Africa Foundation (SFA Foundation) and the Mental Health Innovation Network (MHIN) with support from Wellcome, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent important voices from contributing to discussions on mental health research, policy, and practice in Africa.

Scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya, from February 8–10, 2027, the Global Mental Health Africa Conference will bring together researchers, policymakers, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, people with lived experience, and development partners from across Africa and beyond. The conference will showcase African-led mental health research, innovative interventions, and locally developed solutions that can strengthen mental health systems while contributing to global knowledge and policy discussions.

About the Conference

The Global Mental Health Africa Conference serves as a continental platform for advancing conversations around mental health research, innovation, policy, and service delivery. The conference emphasizes African-led solutions, recognizing that locally developed approaches are essential to addressing the continent's unique mental health challenges.

GMHAC 2027 aims to promote collaboration among researchers, clinicians, governments, civil society organizations, and communities while strengthening links between research, policy, and implementation. Participants will engage in keynote sessions, panel discussions, workshops, networking events, and knowledge-sharing activities that explore practical strategies for improving mental health outcomes across Africa.

Scholarship Benefits

Successful applicants may receive funding to cover one or more of the following:

• Conference registration fees.
• Travel expenses.
• Accommodation costs.
• Other approved participation-related expenses as justified in the application.

Who Can Apply?

The scholarship is open to individuals who fall into one of the following categories:

• Early-career researchers working in mental health research, policy, or practice.
• Students pursuing studies related to mental health (a letter of support from their institution or supervisor is required).
• Individuals with lived experience of mental health conditions or psychosocial disabilities.
• Other applicants with a demonstrated commitment to advancing mental health in Africa.

Priority will be given to applicants based in Africa who require financial assistance to participate in the conference.

Why You Should Apply

Attending GMHAC 2027 offers much more than financial support for conference participation. It provides an opportunity to engage with leading experts, researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and advocates working to improve mental health systems across Africa.

Participants will gain exposure to cutting-edge research, innovative service delivery models, and policy discussions that can inform their work while expanding their professional networks. The conference also creates opportunities for collaboration across countries and disciplines, helping participants build lasting partnerships that advance mental health research and practice.

For students and early-career professionals, the scholarship offers a valuable platform to learn from experienced leaders, present ideas, and explore emerging opportunities within the growing field of global mental health.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should:

1. Visit the official GMHAC Scholarship application page.
2. Review the eligibility requirements and scholarship guidelines.
3. Complete the online application form.
4. Indicate the financial support required (registration, travel, accommodation, or other eligible costs).
5. Upload any required supporting documents, including a letter of support where applicable.
6. Submit the completed application before the deadline.

Applicants should clearly explain why attending the conference is important to their work and how participation will contribute to improving mental health outcomes within their communities or institutions.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

• Demonstrated involvement in mental health research, practice, policy, or advocacy.
• Financial need.
• Potential contribution to the conference.
• Likely impact of conference participation on the applicant's professional or community work.
• Commitment to strengthening mental health systems in Africa.