Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management Fellowship

Africa faces numerous public health challenges that require a well-trained and equipped workforce. In response to Africa’s New Public Health Order, which emphasizes a self-sustaining health security program, the Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Management (PHEM) Fellowship was established. This six-month program aligns with the African Union’s (AU) vision of building public health capacity through targeted training.

The Goal

The PHEM Fellowship aims to develop a highly skilled cadre of African public health professionals capable of leading preparedness and response to public health emergencies. The fellowship will:

Equip fellows with the latest knowledge in public health emergency management and Public Health Emergency Operations Centers (PHEOCs).
Provide in-depth exposure to the critical role of PHEOCs in emergency preparedness and response.
Build fellows’ skills in managing PHEOC functions and leading emergency responses.
Establish a sustainable PHEM program across the African continent.

Fellowship Overview

This fellowship is designed for mid-career African public health professionals experienced in managing PHEOCs or leading emergency preparedness and response programs. The program offers standardized training, mentorship, hands-on experience, and technical assistance, modeled after the US-CDC PHEM Fellowship.

Fellowship Structure

The PHEM Fellowship is a blended, six-month residential program requiring full-time commitment. It includes:

14 weeks of in-person classes at the Africa CDC headquarters in Ethiopia, with mentorship from seasoned professionals.
2 weeks of study tours at PHEOCs within Africa and internationally.
4 weeks of field placement in PHEOCs and emergency response settings.
4 weeks dedicated to project completion, evaluations, and graduation.

Selection Criteria

An independent committee comprising experts from the African Union Commission, Africa CDC, and technical partners will oversee the selection process. The selection is merit-based, with an emphasis on equal opportunity and the representation of underrepresented groups.

Important Dates