Applications are open for the Africa CDC Mental Health Leadership & Advocacy Course, taking place 2–13 March 2026 in Harare, Zimbabwe. Scholarships available. Apply by 31 January 2026.
Call for Applications: Strengthening Mental Health Leadership Across Africa in 2026
As Africa continues to prioritize mental health as a core component of public health and sustainable development, the need for strong, informed, and influential leaders in this field has never been greater. To meet this need, Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) is inviting applications for the Mental Health Leadership & Advocacy Course, part of its flagship Mental Health Leadership Programme (MHLP).
Scheduled to take place from 2–13 March 2026 at the University of Zimbabwe in Harare, this intensive course is designed to equip current and emerging leaders with the skills, knowledge, and networks required to drive meaningful change in mental health systems across the continent.
Building Leadership for Mental Health Impact
The Mental Health Leadership & Advocacy Course is grounded in the recognition that effective mental health responses require more than clinical expertise alone. Policy influence, strategic leadership, advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration are essential to addressing the complex social, economic, and health-related factors that affect mental well-being.
Through this programme, Africa CDC aims to strengthen leadership capacity among professionals working in mental health and related fields. Participants are exposed to practical tools and frameworks that support evidence-based decision-making, policy engagement, and high-impact advocacy at national, regional, and continental levels.
What the Programme Offers
The two-week, in-person course provides a structured and interactive learning experience hosted in an academic environment known for public health training and research. Participants benefit from:
- Expert-led sessions on mental health leadership, governance, and advocacy
- Peer learning and exchange with professionals from across Africa
- Opportunities to build lasting professional networks
- Practical insights into influencing policy and strengthening mental health systems
By the end of the programme, participants are expected to be better positioned to champion mental health priorities within their institutions, communities, and countries.
Scholarships and Participation Options
To ensure broad access and regional representation, scholarships are available for selected applicants. These include Africa CDC–sponsored scholarships, as well as the option for self-sponsored participation. This flexibility allows professionals from diverse backgrounds and institutions to take part, regardless of funding constraints.
Details regarding scholarship coverage and selection criteria are typically shared during the application and review process, reinforcing Africa CDC’s commitment to equity and capacity development across the continent.
Key Dates and Application Details
Prospective applicants are encouraged to plan ahead and submit their materials on time. The application deadline is 31 January 2026, and late submissions may not be considered.
All applications must be submitted through the official online form:
🔗 Application form: https://lnkd.in/dvbtuMzG
Applicants are advised to complete the form carefully and provide all required information to support their candidacy.
Who Should Apply?
The course is well suited for professionals involved in mental health and public health leadership, including those working in government, academia, civil society, healthcare systems, and regional or international organizations. Individuals with a demonstrated interest in mental health advocacy, policy development, and leadership are especially encouraged to apply.
While participants come from varied professional backgrounds, they share a common commitment to advancing mental health as a public health priority in Africa.
Looking Ahead to 2026
As 2026 begins, the Mental Health Leadership & Advocacy Course offers a timely opportunity to invest in personal growth while contributing to a broader continental agenda. By strengthening leadership and advocacy skills, the programme supports the development of resilient mental health systems that can respond effectively to current and future challenges.
Africa CDC’s Mental Health Leadership Programme continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of mental health leaders. This call for applications marks another important step toward building a coordinated, empowered, and impactful mental health workforce across Africa.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply early and take part in this transformative learning experience in Harare.
APPLY HERE
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