2026 Internship Program – Session 2
About the Organization
The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) stands as the premier pan-African development institution, dedicated to fueling economic growth and social progress across the entire continent. Since its establishment in 1964, the Bank has grown to include 81 member states, comprising 54 regional member countries in Africa and 27 non-regional members. Our mission is centered on delivering financial and technical support for transformative projects that significantly reduce poverty through inclusive and sustainable economic development.
At the heart of our operations is the Ten-Year Strategy (2023–2032), which serves as a blueprint for Africa’s economic transformation. To ensure the greatest developmental impact, we focus on four Cardinal Points: unlocking capital at scale, reforming Africa’s financial architecture, transitioning from a demographic boom to an economic powerhouse, and building climate-resilient infrastructure. These pillars are designed to accelerate the delivery of essential services and infrastructure to millions of Africans.
The Bank fosters a culture of excellence, integrity, and professionalism. We believe that our greatest asset is our human capital, and we are committed to attracting the brightest minds who are passionate about the development of Africa. By joining the Bank, you become part of a prestigious international community working toward a common goal of continental prosperity.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are foundational to our recruitment philosophy. We recognize that a diverse workforce brings a variety of perspectives that are crucial for solving complex development challenges. We strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work regardless of their background.
The African Development Bank Group is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from women and underrepresented groups. We are committed to gender equality and believe that empowering women is essential for the sustainable development of the African continent.
Job Description and Strategic Impact
The 2026 Internship Program is a strategic initiative within the Bank’s wider Talent Management Framework. This program is designed to provide students with an opportunity to acquire professional and practical experience in a high-impact international environment. Interns are not just observers; they are integrated into various departments where they contribute to real-world projects that align with the Bank’s mission.
Interns play a vital role in supporting the Bank’s “High 5” priorities and the Ten-Year Strategy. By assisting in research, data management, and operational programming, interns help the Bank stay at the forefront of development trends. This experience allows participants to apply their academic knowledge to the unique challenges facing African economies today.
The “day-in-the-life” of an intern at the AfDB involves collaboration with world-class experts in fields ranging from economics and engineering to climate change and finance. You will be tasked with meaningful assignments that require analytical thinking, creativity, and a proactive approach. This immersion provides a rare look into the inner workings of a multilateral development bank.
Career development is a cornerstone of this program. While the internship does not guarantee immediate employment, it provides a competitive edge for future recruitment purposes both within the Bank and in the broader international development sector. Interns receive mentorship and guidance that help shape their professional trajectory and refine their technical skills.
The strategic impact of these roles extends beyond the duration of the internship. By building a pool of potential candidates, the Bank ensures a sustainable pipeline of talent prepared to lead Africa’s future. Participants leave the program with a deep understanding of developmental finance and a network of professionals dedicated to the continent’s growth.
Job Positions and Requirements
Intern – Various Disciplines (Session 2, July 2026)
Educational Qualification: Must be currently enrolled in a Master’s level degree program in a recognized public or private educational institution. Candidates can also apply within one (1) year of having obtained such a degree.
Work Experience: No formal prior work experience is required, but special consideration is given to students working on projects with a direct bearing on the Bank’s mission. Applicants must be fluent in either English or French.
Job Location: Selected candidates will be deployed at the Headquarters in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, or various Regional and Country Offices. Remote internship options are also available based on departmental needs.
Salary: Eligible interns will be provided with a monthly stipend and medical insurance coverage paid by the Bank.
No. Required: Multiple vacancies across various departments.
Employment Type and Compensation
The internship is a fixed-term contract lasting for a period of no less than three months and no more than six months. This session is scheduled to commence in July 2026. The program is authorized only once for any candidate, ensuring that a wide range of students from across the 81 member countries can benefit from this prestigious opportunity.
The compensation package includes a competitive monthly stipend designed to support the intern during their tenure. Additionally, the Bank provides comprehensive medical insurance coverage for the duration of the internship. For those selected for on-site roles, the Bank will provide reasonable assistance in obtaining entry and residence visas to ensure a smooth transition to their assigned location.
For remote interns, the Bank offers the flexibility to work from a conducive home environment. Remote participants are expected to provide their own personal computer and a reliable internet connection. This model allows the Bank to tap into talent that may not be able to relocate, further enhancing the inclusivity of the program.
The Bank emphasizes that the internship is a learning experience. Beyond the financial stipend, the true value lies in the professional growth, the exposure to international civil service, and the chance to contribute to the economic sovereignty of Africa. It is an investment in your future and the future of the continent.
How to Apply
To apply for this program, interested candidates must submit a complete online application. It is essential to attach a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) that highlights your academic achievements and relevant skills. Please ensure that your application clearly indicates your nationality, as the program is only open to nationals of the member countries of the African Development Bank.
During the initial application phase, scanned certificates or physical attachments such as degrees and transcripts are NOT required. We aim to make the first stage of the process as streamlined as possible for all applicants. Candidates should focus on providing accurate information in the online forms and a well-structured CV.
Original documents and certificates will be required only for physical verification if a candidate is invited to the interview stage. At that point, you may also be asked to provide a letter from your school confirming your enrollment or a copy of your recently obtained degree.
Please note that due to the high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment. If you do not hear from us within a reasonable timeframe following the deadline, please consider your application unsuccessful for this specific session.
Interested candidates should submit their application via the official African Development Bank career portal links provided below. This is the primary and only authorized channel for applications. The Bank does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process.
Application Deadline
April 8, 2026
Official Application Link / Contact
External Candidates: https://www.afdb.org/en/vacancy/2026-internship-program-session-2-91742
Technical Support: HRDirect@AFDB.ORG