Call for Applications: Bingwa PLUS Initiative – Grants, Mentorship, and Networking for Young African Health Champions

The Africa Centers for Disease Control (Africa CDC), in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH Office to the African Union and YouthHubAfrica, is excited to announce the launch of Bingwa PLUS, a dynamic incubator for young African health champions dedicated to improving the health of their communities.

About Bingwa PLUS

The Bingwa PLUS Initiative builds on the success of the African Union’s Bingwa Initiative, which mobilized Youth Health Advocates (Bingwas) across Africa to boost vaccination rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. This new program focuses on empowering young health leaders to design, fund, and implement impactful health initiatives within their communities. Participants will gain critical skills in health advocacy, leadership, and innovation, as well as learn how to create structures that can respond effectively to health crises across the continent.

Who Should Apply?

Bingwa PLUS is seeking young, community-driven health initiatives that are scalable and led by youth with a passion for making a lasting impact. To qualify, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizen of an African Union member state
• Age 18-35
• Public health enthusiast with demonstrated leadership potential and a commitment to improving community health
• Submission of a proposal that clearly defines a health challenge and proposes a scalable solution
• Availability to participate in a 4-month incubation program
• Individuals from marginalized or disadvantaged backgrounds (e.g., youth from rural areas, those with disabilities, gender minorities) are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Priority will be given to applicants with ideas addressing current health emergencies, including Mpox and Marburg outbreaks.

Program Benefits

Selected participants in the Bingwa PLUS Initiative will receive:

• Weekly Webinars: Access to webinars led by experts and YouthHubAfrica Academy’s online resources
• Network Membership: Be part of a growing network of young health advocates across Africa
• Visibility and Exposure: Showcase your initiative to a continental audience through Africa CDC and GIZ platforms
• Grants and Mentorship: Opportunity to pitch for small grants up to USD 3,000, along with tailored mentorship and hands-on support during project implementation
• Scaling Support: Assistance from Africa CDC and partners (GIZ, YouthHubAfrica) in identifying and applying for further funding opportunities

Application Process

Interested applicants must complete the online application form, which includes:

1. A personal statement reflecting on your motivation to join the program and how it aligns with your goals.
2. A 300-word proposal detailing the health challenge you aim to tackle and the solution you would implement.
3. An updated curriculum vitae (maximum three pages).
4. A recommendation letter from an employer, volunteer supervisor, or academic referee who can speak to your character, leadership potential, and project management skills.

APPLY NOW 

Important Dates

• Application Deadline: Applications are open until 11:59 PM East Africa Time on November 17, 2024. Note that applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis.

Don’t miss this chance to elevate your health initiative and contribute to health advocacy in Africa!