The Global Africa Translation Fellowship is an initiative of The Africa Institute, offered under its African Languages and Translation Program. The fellowship is designed to expand global access to significant intellectual, literary, and cultural works from Africa and its diaspora by supporting high-quality translations into widely read languages. The programme reflects The Africa Institute’s commitment to amplifying African knowledge systems and ensuring that key texts from the continent and its global diasporas reach broader international audiences. Through this fellowship, translators play a critical role in shaping global conversations on African and African Diaspora studies. Fellowship Overview The Global Africa Translation Fellowship is a non-residential award, allowing fellows to undertake their translation projects from any location. It provides financial support to enable the translation of important works originally produced on the African continent or within the African diaspora. The fellowship prioritises projects that contribute meaningfully to scholarship, literature, and cultural exchange. Translations into English or Arabic are strongly encouraged, while proposals involving other languages will also be considered. This fellowship is open to applicants from across the Global South, reinforcing a commitment to inclusive knowledge production and representation. Funding and Project Scope Selected fellows are awarded grants ranging from USD 1,000 to USD 5,000, depending on the scope, complexity, and quality of the proposed translation project. Funding decisions are made based on the strength of the proposal and the feasibility of completing the work within the fellowship period. Eligible projects may include: Previously untranslated works from Africa or its diaspora Retranslations of classic or historically significant texts Poetry, prose, or literary collections Works of critical theory or interdisciplinary scholarship Projects that are newly conceived or already in progress, provided they can be completed during the fellowship period The fellowship encourages intellectual diversity and welcomes projects that engage with literature, history, philosophy, politics, culture, and social thought. Fellowship Objectives The Global Africa Translation Fellowship aims to: Increase the global circulation of African and African Diaspora texts Support translators working across linguistic, cultural, and disciplinary boundaries Preserve and archive translated works for scholarly and institutional reference Strengthen the field of African languages, translation, and comparative studies By supporting translators, the fellowship contributes to the long-term sustainability of African intellectual and literary traditions in global discourse. Selection and Review Process Applications are reviewed by The Africa Institute’s faculty and research fellows, who assess submissions based on academic merit, originality, and clarity. Selection criteria include: Overall quality and significance of the proposed translation Relevance of the text to African or African Diaspora studies The applicant’s demonstrated ability and experience to complete the project Feasibility of the proposed timeline and scope Successful applicants are expected to deliver a completed translation by the end of the fellowship period. Grant Disbursement and Fellowship Conditions Funding is disbursed in two instalments: The first instalment is released at the start of the fellowship The second instalment is released upon successful completion of the project Fellows are required to submit a copy of the completed translation to The Africa Institute for archival purposes. The Institute will not publish, reproduce, or otherwise use the translation without the explicit consent of the awardee, ensuring that intellectual and publishing rights remain protected. Application Cycle and Deadline The 2026 Open Call for the Global Africa Translation Fellowship is now open. Key application details: Application Deadline: Thursday, March 12, 2026 Applications must be submitted through the official online application platform Email submissions are not accepted Each uploaded attachment must not exceed 3 MB Applicants can either start a new application or continue an existing one through the portal. How to Apply Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application requirements, and submission guidelines before applying. All materials must be submitted via the designated online system by the stated deadline. For programme-related questions or technical support, applicants may contact applications@theafricainstitute.org. Alumni and Community The fellowship is part of a growing network of scholars and translators supported by The Africa Institute. Applicants are encouraged to explore profiles of past awardees to gain insight into the range and impact of supported projects. Alumni contributions continue to shape global engagement with African and African Diaspora thought. About The Africa Institute The Africa Institute is based at Global Studies University, Sharjah (UAE). It is dedicated to research, education, and public engagement focused on Africa and its diasporas. Through fellowships, academic programmes, publications, and cultural initiatives, the Institute advances critical scholarship and cross-cultural understanding. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the fellowship organization. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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