The African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) Geospatial Leaders Fellowship (GIS) 2027 for mid-level conservation GIS professionals.

Application Deadline: December 14, 2026 at 3:59 PM

Applications are now open for the 2027 African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) Geospatial Leaders Fellowship. The AWF Geospatial Leaders Fellowship is a ten-month Pan-African programme that brings together mid-level conservation GIS professionals from NGOs, government agencies, research institutions and community-based organisations who are passionate about using spatial data to protect Africa’s wildlife and wild lands.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the AWF Geospatial Leaders Fellowship, you must: 

1. Be a national of, and currently working in, one of the following eleven countries: Cameroon, Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia or Uganda
2. Have at least two years of hands-on GIS experience in conservation, natural resource management or a related field.
3. Be currently employed or attached to an organisation (NGO, government agency, research institution, private sector or community-based organisation) that will host your capstone project, and provide a letter of support from your employer confirming your full participation.
4. Be able to commit to ten months of consistent engagement, including virtual sessions, self-paced learning, mentorship check-ins and a capstone project.
5. Be available to travel to Nairobi, Kenya for the in-person workshop on 13th -20th June 2027

Benefits

• Practical training in modern GIS tools, data management, field data collection, real-time GIS, imagery and spatial analysis.
• Expert coaching and mentorship to strengthen your technical and leadership skills.
• Support to develop a map, model, dashboard or decision tool addressing a conservation priority within your organization.
• Connections with a Pan-African network of conservation and geospatial practitioners.

Programme Format and Support

• The fellowship combines virtual sessions, an in-person workshop in Nairobi, applied project work and mentoring.
• Expect approximately four hours per week, varying by module and project requirements.
• Funding covers programme-related travel and local transport, accommodation during workshops and required placements, and an internet connectivity stipend.

How to Apply

• Submit your CV, an employer recommendation letter and academic transcripts/certificates. A portfolio or sample GIS work is optional.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) Geospatial Leaders Fellowship