Applications are now open for the Sawaba Fellowship 2026, a program that supports African thinkers and creators in exploring ideas of freedom and justice.
This fellowship comes from Liberation Alliance Africa. It gives space for researchers, artists, activists, writers, journalists, and community leaders to reflect and produce knowledge. The focus is on decolonial feminist futures, which means challenging old colonial ideas and building new ways of thinking about equality and community.
Four fellows of African descent living on the continent will be chosen. The program starts with a three-day in-person retreat in an easy-to-reach spot in Africa.
2026 Fellowship Theme: Not Pioneers of an Empty Land
The theme for this year is “Not Pioneers of an Empty Land.” It pushes back against the old colonial story that claimed lands were empty before Europeans arrived. Fellows will look at how these myths still affect us today, like in social media where people chase fame as lone experts.
Instead, the theme honors the stories, histories, and shared knowledge passed down by ancestors. It calls for breaking free from borders created by colonialism and reclaiming old traditions of cooperation, care for the land, and community support.
Fellows can explore this through their own work, whether in art, writing, research, or activism.
Benefits of the Fellowship
Selected fellows receive a monthly stipend of USD $500. This money helps cover costs for their projects during the fellowship period.
The program also offers a chance to connect with others, join the retreat, and build skills in critical thinking and solidarity.
Who Can Apply?
Open to people of African descent living in Africa. They can be artists, academics, journalists, filmmakers, thinkers, poets, architects, urban planners, novelists, or workers in culture and other fields.
Applicants should have strong views on justice, equality, rights, climate, identity, and community. They need to go beyond common ideas and show deep roots in decolonial feminist politics, anti-imperialist solidarity, world-building from a feminist view, and freeing knowledge from colonial limits.
Knowledge of regional and global issues is key.
How to Apply
Send your application to [email protected].
Include:
- A cover letter
- A portfolio of your past work
- A project description, no more than three pages
- A draft project budget
Deadline and Additional Details
All applications must arrive by April 24, 2026.
For full details, check the official call document from Liberation Alliance Africa. This fellowship aims to support bold voices working toward a freer, more just future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Sawaba Fellowship 2026?
The Sawaba Fellowship 2026 is a program by Liberation Alliance Africa that supports African thinkers, artists, and activists in exploring ideas of freedom, justice, and decolonial feminist futures. It includes a retreat and project funding for four selected fellows.
Who can apply for the fellowship?
People of African descent living in Africa can apply, including artists, researchers, journalists, writers, and community leaders with strong views on justice, equality, and decolonial politics.
What are the benefits of the fellowship?
Fellows receive a monthly stipend of USD $500, attend a three-day in-person retreat, and gain skills in critical thinking and networking with others.
How do I apply and what is the deadline?
Email your cover letter, portfolio, project description (up to three pages), and budget to [email protected] by April 24, 2026. Check the official call for full details.
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