About the Organization:
The Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) is a leading continental institution mandated to promote the economic and social development of African member states, foster regional integration, and advance international cooperation for Africa’s development. ECA provides policy advice, technical assistance, and capacity-building support to governments to achieve sustainable growth aligned with the 2030 SDGs and Agenda 2063.
The Macroeconomics, Finance and Governance Division (MFGD) supports Member States in accelerating economic diversification, improving business environments, increasing private sector investment, and promoting innovative financing for infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and services.
Interns at ECA gain exposure to high-level economic research, policy formulation, and regional development initiatives while contributing to Africa’s transformation.
Job Description:
This internship offers the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to ECA’s work in economic affairs and sustainable development, focusing on research, data analysis, and program support. Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting in conducting research on capital markets, domestic investment, and innovative financing structures.
- Cataloguing and analyzing economic and financial data to support regional development initiatives.
- Supporting program and project activities related to bond markets, economic growth, and financial inclusion.
- Contributing to reports, briefings, and policy notes under supervision of senior officers.
- Participating in team meetings, discussions, and workplan implementation.
- Performing other tasks as assigned by the Chief of the Finance and Domestic Resource Mobilization Section (FDRMS) or designated officers.
This internship enables young professionals to develop analytical, research, and policy-making skills while contributing to real-world African economic development projects.
Educational Qualification:
Applicants must, at the time of application:
- Be enrolled in, or have completed, a graduate school program (second university degree or higher); OR
- Be enrolled in, or have completed, the final academic year of a first university degree program (minimum bachelor’s level).
Interns should be computer literate and capable of using standard software applications for research, data analysis, and reporting.
Work Experience:
No prior work experience is required. This position is designed for students or recent graduates who want to gain practical experience in economic research, policy analysis, and regional development.
Required Skills and Competencies:
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Ability to interact professionally with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Interest in African economic development, policy, and finance.
- Adaptability, resilience, and willingness to learn.
Job Location:
The internship will be conducted in-person at the ECA compound in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Employment Type and Duration:
- Full-time internship for 6 months.
- Interns work five days per week (35 hours).
Remuneration:
- This is an unpaid internship. Costs for travel, visas, accommodation, and living expenses are the responsibility of the intern or sponsoring institution.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a fully completed online application, including:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Academic transcripts or certificates
- Personal information including nationality
- Any other documents required by the ECA internship portal
Additional Information:
- Women and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
- Fluency in English or French is required; knowledge of additional UN languages is an advantage.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- The United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Impact and Professional Growth:
Interns at ECA contribute directly to Africa’s economic policy development, gain hands-on experience in research and data analysis, and build networks with regional and international experts. This role is ideal for those seeking career development in economic affairs, finance, and governance on the African continent.
Apply Now: ECA Internship Portal
Deadline: February 19, 2026