Africa–Japan Programme for Youth and Women Leaders ·United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR)

Overview

This fully funded program by the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) offers young professionals and women from 11 Sub-Saharan African countries the chance to enhance their leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation skills.

Eligibility

Applications are open to youth and women aged 18 to 35 from the following Anglophone Sub-Saharan African countries:

• Botswana
• Ethiopia
• Ghana
• Kenya
• Nigeria
• Rwanda
• South Africa
• Tanzania
• Uganda
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe

Eligible applicants include aspiring entrepreneurs, early-stage business founders, SME owners, researchers, innovators, social entrepreneurs, and professionals developing scalable business or development solutions.

Benefits

Participants will receive:

• Practical training and mentorship
• Project development support
• Networking opportunities with public institutions, investors, and private-sector stakeholders
• Certificates upon completion of each phase

Note: Limited personal expenses may apply for selected participants in the immersion program in Japan.

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their applications by the deadline.

Deadline

Applications close on July 31, 2026.