Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026

Africa stands at a pivotal moment in its public health journey. The continent’s young professionals now have an unprecedented opportunity to influence this trajectory. Applications have officially opened for the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026, which will bring together emerging health leaders from every African Union Member State.

Conference Overview

This dynamic gathering will take place immediately preceding the 5th International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2026). The Youth Pre-Conference (YPC 2026) serves as the official youth platform for the main conference, creating a direct pipeline for young voices to reach Africa’s most influential health policymakers. Subsequently, selected participants will continue into CPHIA 2026 from November 23 through 27, experiencing the full spectrum of continental health diplomacy.

The 2026 edition anchors itself in Africa CDC’s Health Security and Sovereignty agenda. This framework challenges the continent to move from health dependency toward genuine ownership and resilience. Consequently, the focus remains intensely practical: identifying who will lead, determining what Africa will build, and exploring how young Africans can translate health sovereignty into tangible action.

Benefits

The organisers have eliminated financial barriers through comprehensive sponsorship for selected delegates.

• Flight tickets covering round trip travel to the conference venue
• Accommodation throughout the program duration
• Meals during official activities
• CPHIA registration fee providing access to the main conference

Eligibility Requirements

The selection committee seeks passionate individuals who demonstrate genuine commitment to improving health outcomes across Africa. YPC 2026 welcomes diverse perspectives from various professional backgrounds.

Essential eligibility requirements include:

• Age between 18 and 35 years at the time of application
• Citizenship of an African Union Member State
• Enrollment in at least an undergraduate programme or relevant educational, professional, or community experience
• Background in public health, medicine, nursing, community health, environmental health, research, digital health, health policy, public service, development, communications, journalism, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, social sciences, or related disciplines
• Demonstrated leadership potential and strong commitment to health improvement
• Full availability to participate in both YPC 2026 and CPHIA 2026
• Willingness to contribute to peer exchange and cultural activities

What Will You Experience?

This program offers far more than passive attendance. Participants actively shape the youth priorities and recommendations that will feed directly into CPHIA 2026. Moreover, they engage directly with African public health leaders, policymakers, researchers, innovators, and practitioners who are shaping continental health strategy.

Workshops, dialogues, and interactive sessions form the educational backbone of this experience. These sessions develop new knowledge while building connections across diverse professional networks. Additionally, participants can showcase their work, research, ideas, or community experience to an appreciative audience.

The peer exchange component proves particularly valuable. Building relationships with fellow young Africans from across the continent creates lasting professional networks. Furthermore, the cultural life of the Youth Pre Conference adds richness to the overall experience.

Application Requirements

Prospective applicants must submit a complete application package by September 13, 2026, at 17:00 East Africa Time (EAT) . The online application form accepts submissions in English or French.

Required documents include:

• Completed online application form
• Curriculum vitae (CV) not exceeding two pages
• Passport biodata page
• Any additional information requested in the application form

How to Apply

Click Here to Apply

Why This Program Matters Now

Africa’s health challenges demand urgent attention and innovative solutions. Young professionals bring fresh perspectives, technological fluency, and cultural understanding that older generations may lack. Consequently, their participation in policy discussions carries particular significance.

This program positions participants at the center of continental health governance. The connections established during YPC 2026 often translate into collaborative research projects, professional opportunities, and lifelong friendships. Moreover, the recognition of being selected as a youth delegate opens doors to future engagements with Africa CDC and other international organisations.

Conclusions

Ready to contribute to Africa’s health sovereignty journey? Visit the official application portal through the link provided below. Prepare thoughtful responses that demonstrate your qualifications and genuine commitment. Highlight relevant experiences, academic achievements, and professional aspirations that align with the program objectives.

The Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2026 offers a transformative opportunity to engage with continental health priorities. Apply now and position yourself at the forefront of Africa’s public health future.

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