funding: Supported by the Government of Japan
location: Sub-Saharan Africa (11 countries) + Japan immersion phase
host: UNITAR (United Nations Institute for Training and Research)
source-url: https://opportunitydesk.org/2026/06/27/unitar-capacity-development-programme-2026/
apply-url: https://event.unitar.org/user/login?destination=/product/15337/application
The UNITAR Capacity Development Programme 2026 is designed to strengthen entrepreneurial and leadership competencies of 18-35 year old youth and women professionals from Anglophone Sub-Saharan Africa. With the support of the Government and People of Japan, the programme will support 11 countries, including Botswana, Ethiopia, and Ghana. It will provide opportunities for structured mentorship, applied learning, and ecosystem exposure.
Overview
The programme contributes to building sustainable Africa–Japan relationships grounded in innovation, shared value creation, responsible investment, technology exchange, and inclusive economic transformation.
- Design innovative, inclusive, and sustainable business or development solutions
- Apply digital technologies, AI, and emerging innovation tools to address challenges
- Develop operationally feasible and financially viable project concepts
- Strengthen leadership, negotiation, stakeholder engagement, and cross-sector collaboration competencies
- Integrate sustainability, gender equality, social impact, and SDG considerations
- Formulate partnership-ready and investment-oriented proposals
Eligibility
The Programme is open to youth and women professionals aged 18–35 from Anglophone Sub-Saharan African countries.
- Aspiring or early-stage entrepreneurs
- SME founders and innovators
- Professionals and practitioners
- Researchers and technology innovators
- Social entrepreneurs and ecosystem builders
Benefits
- Certificates of completion will be awarded to participants who complete each phase
- Participation is funded by the Government and the People of Japan
- Selected participants for the Japan immersion phase may receive support for limited personal expenses
How to Apply
Applications are open until July 31, 2026.
- Submit application through the UNITAR website
- Provide required documents and information
- Await selection and further instructions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the age range for eligible applicants?
Applicants must be aged 18-35 to be eligible for the programme.
Which countries are eligible for the programme?
The programme is open to Anglophone Sub-Saharan African countries, including Botswana, Ethiopia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline for applications is July 31, 2026.
What are the benefits of participating in the programme?
Participation is funded by the Government and the People of Japan, and selected participants will receive certificates of completion and support for limited personal expenses during the Japan immersion phase.
What are the expected outcomes of the programme?
By the end of the programme, participants will be able to design innovative business solutions, apply digital technologies, and develop operationally feasible project concepts.