The Climate Hub Tanzania, with support from Climate-KIC, the Embassy of Ireland, and the Segal Family Foundation, invites applications for the Wangari Maathai Fellowship 2026. Apply by 5 April 2026 to receive mentorship, training, and funding for climate projects.
Wangari Maathai Fellowship Cohort II 2026: Call for Applications
The Climate Hub Tanzania, with generous support from Climate-KIC, the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania, and the Segal Family Foundation, is pleased to announce the launch of the second cohort of the Wangari Maathai Fellowship (WMF) 2026. Following the success of the inaugural cohort in 2025, which supported ten fellows with mentorship, funding, and community-driven projects, the 2026 programme is set to expand its impact by selecting fifteen fellows for an intensive eight-month fellowship.
Named in honor of Wangari Maathai, the Kenyan environmentalist, Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and founder of the Green Belt Movement, the fellowship continues her vision of empowering young leaders to drive meaningful climate action at the community level. This programme aims to equip Tanzanian youth with the knowledge, mentorship, and financial resources needed to implement effective and sustainable climate solutions.
Fellowship Overview
The Wangari Maathai Fellowship is designed to address the financial and technical gaps that often hinder young climate leaders from executing impactful projects. Each selected fellow will receive a financial sub-grant of €500 to implement a locally relevant climate initiative. Beyond funding, fellows will benefit from professional mentorship, skill-building sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at enhancing climate resilience, promoting policy engagement, and fostering grassroots environmental leadership.
Fellows will design and lead projects in areas such as:
- Sustainable agriculture
- Clean and renewable energy solutions
- Reforestation and ecosystem restoration
- Water conservation and management
- Community advocacy and climate education
This hands-on approach ensures that fellows create tangible environmental impact while developing practical leadership skills and contributing to the national climate action agenda.
Location and Duration
The fellowship will follow a hybrid format, combining in-person sessions and virtual learning to maximize accessibility and engagement. The programme runs from April 2026 to November 2026, providing an immersive eight-month experience for selected fellows.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Aged 18–30 years at the time of application
- Fluent in English and Kiswahili
- Residing in Tanzania
- Possess formal education (secondary, certificate, diploma, university, or equivalent) demonstrating academic excellence in environmental sustainability, climate action, or related fields
- Actively engaged in environmental conservation, climate mitigation/adaptation, or related community initiatives through volunteering, advocacy, research, innovation, or leadership
- Have a feasible, well-developed climate or environmental project idea ready for implementation during the fellowship
These criteria ensure that the fellowship selects highly motivated individuals with both the capacity and commitment to drive meaningful climate interventions in their communities.
Key Components of the Fellowship
- Formal Learning: Fellows will engage in structured training sessions, both in-person and virtual, covering climate policy, project development, advocacy strategies, and personal leadership development.
- Hands-on Project Implementation: Each fellow will design and execute a Climate Action Impact Project, addressing a pressing environmental challenge in their community and generating measurable outcomes.
- Networking and Policy Engagement: Fellows will attend climate-focused events, interact with policymakers, and contribute to national and regional climate discussions.
- Financial Support and Mentorship: Each fellow receives a €500 sub-grant to implement their project, complemented by mentorship from experienced climate leaders and community advocates.
- Post-Fellowship Advancement: The top three performing projects will receive extended support, including mentorship, strategic partnership facilitation, scaling assistance, and visibility opportunities. Selected fellows may also represent Tanzanian youth at regional and international climate conferences.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Climate Hub Tanzania emphasizes Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. The programme fosters an inclusive environment where all fellows can contribute fully, learn from one another, and develop their leadership potential.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit their CV and a motivation letter by 5 April 2026. For technical assistance or inquiries, applicants can contact [email protected].
This fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity for young Tanzanians to transform innovative ideas into actionable climate solutions, gain mentorship from experts, and contribute to sustainable development at both local and national levels.
Final Thoughts
The Wangari Maathai Fellowship Cohort II 2026 is a transformative programme that empowers Tanzanian youth to take leadership in climate action. With structured learning, financial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities, it equips participants with the tools to drive meaningful environmental change.
For young leaders committed to creating sustainable solutions and advancing community resilience, this fellowship offers both a platform and the resources to make a tangible impact. By participating, fellows honor the legacy of Wangari Maathai, continuing her mission of environmental stewardship, social justice, and youth-led climate innovation in Tanzania.
APPLICATION FORM
