IJP Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme 2027

Overview

The Southern African-German Journalists’ Programme is a multiyear initiative designed to encourage greater mutual understanding between Germany and Africa. Named in honour of former Federal President Horst Köhler in recognition of his dedication to German-African relations, the programme addresses concerns regarding political and cultural detachment between Europe and Africa. The bursary allows young media professionals to develop meaningful insights into the economic, political, social, and cultural environments of the host country.

Who can apply

Candidates must be journalists between 25 and 40 years of age who are from Kenya or SADC Member States and regularly work for a media organization. Applicants must possess above-average English language skills.

What you get

Southern African delegates are provided a fixed payment of 3,500 Euro to help cover living, travel, and accommodation expenses, with no additional disbursements available. Participants are required to fund any remaining expenses personally, and payment for journalistic work produced with the host media is not included. To obtain the full grant, participants must submit a written report of at least three pages and provide copies of their published journalistic work upon returning home.

Requirements

Applicants must submit a comprehensive curriculum vitae with a passport photograph detailing their work experience, education, and language proficiencies in German and English, alongside relevant certificates if held. An 800-word essay is required covering the motivation to work in Germany, three intended research topics for the fellowship, anticipated future roles at home media outlets, and plans for spending the bursary. Candidates must also provide two representative work samples, such as articles, scripts, or online links for TV and radio, and a journalistic reference from an editor-in-chief, head of department, or senior journalist for freelancers. This reference letter must explicitly guarantee a leave of absence for the duration of the programme.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via email to office@ijp.org between November 1, 2026, and January 20, 2027.

Key dates

Applications are accepted from November 1, 2026, until the application deadline of January 20, 2027.