The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for postgraduate students across Africa to showcase their research skills and compete for a grand prize of USD 45,000. The application deadline for this competition is September 30, 2026, and interested students are encouraged to start preparing their submissions early. By participating in this competition, students can gain valuable experience, build their professional network, and contribute to the economic development of the African continent.
About the Opportunity
The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition is an initiative of the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), a pan-African multilateral financial institution dedicated to promoting African trade and economic development. The competition is named after Mr. Christopher Edordu, the pioneer President of Afreximbank, who played a crucial role in shaping the institution’s vision and commitment to African economic sovereignty. The purpose of the competition is to encourage postgraduate students to conduct rigorous and original research on issues that are critical to the continent’s economic trajectory, including trade, finance, integration, and sustainable development.
The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition matters for Africans because it provides a platform for young researchers to contribute to the development of innovative solutions to the continent’s economic challenges. By supporting and recognizing the work of these researchers, the competition helps to build a pipeline of talented professionals who can drive economic growth and transformation in Africa. Moreover, the competition’s focus on trade, finance, and sustainable development aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, which emphasizes the need for African countries to harness their natural resources, promote economic diversification, and foster regional integration.
The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition is also significant because it provides a unique opportunity for postgraduate students to engage with policymakers and business leaders on issues that are critical to the continent’s economic future. By presenting their research findings to Afreximbank leadership and other stakeholders, students can gain valuable insights into the policy and business implications of their research and build relationships that can help them advance their careers. Furthermore, the competition’s emphasis on actionable policy briefs ensures that the research produced is not only academically rigorous but also practically relevant and useful to policymakers and business leaders.
Who Can Apply
The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition is open to postgraduate students who are currently enrolled at an accredited tertiary institution on the African continent or in an eligible CARICOM state, and who hold nationality of an African country or an eligible CARICOM state.
- Eligible applicants must be postgraduate students (Master’s or PhD) who are currently enrolled at an accredited tertiary institution on the African continent or in an eligible CARICOM state.
- Applicants must hold nationality of an African country or an eligible CARICOM state, which includes Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname.
- Applicants must submit original, unpublished research papers that are not under consideration for publication elsewhere.
What You Will Gain
By participating in the Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition, postgraduate students can gain a range of benefits that can help them advance their academic and professional careers.
- A grand prize of USD 45,000, which can be used to support further research or professional development.
- Opportunities to present research findings to Afreximbank leadership and other stakeholders, which can help build relationships and advance careers.
- Recognition and visibility through the publication of research papers and policy briefs, which can help establish students as experts in their field.
- Networking opportunities with other researchers, policymakers, and business leaders, which can help build a professional network and access new opportunities.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity to participate in the Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition 2026. The deadline for applications is September 30, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to prepare and submit a high-quality research paper.
How to Apply for The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition 2026 for postgraduate students across Africa (USD 45,000 prize)
To apply for the Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition, postgraduate students must submit an original, unpublished research paper that addresses one of the topics specified by the competition. The research paper should be written in English, and should not exceed 5,000 words. Applicants must also provide a brief abstract and a CV, which should include their academic background, research experience, and contact information.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The Afreximbank–Edordu Research Competition 2026 is a unique opportunity for postgraduate students to contribute to the economic development of the African continent and build their professional network. By participating in this competition, students can gain valuable experience, build their confidence, and establish themselves as experts in their field. We encourage all eligible students to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their research skills and compete for a grand prize of USD 45,000. Apply now and take the first step towards a successful and rewarding career in research and economic development!
