Applications Now Open for the Gender Responsive Agriculture Systems Policy (GRASP) Fellowship – Third Cohort
Call for applications to the third cohort of the Gender Responsive Agriculture Systems Policy (GRASP) Fellowship is now open! This is a unique opportunity for African women working in various sectors to drive policy change and contribute to the creation of more equitable and gender-responsive agri-food systems across sub-Saharan Africa.
The GRASP Fellowship aims to build a vibrant, interconnected, and intergenerational network of women policy professionals from diverse disciplines. The goal is to equip them with the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to lead and influence policy reform processes in the agrifood sector, ensuring that gender inequalities are effectively addressed.
Since its launch in December 2022, the GRASP Fellowship has already empowered numerous women across Africa to contribute to policy reforms that promote gender equity within agrifood systems. The fellowship continues to offer a comprehensive program that combines leadership development, gender-sensitive policy analysis, mentoring, and hands-on project implementation.
Who Can Apply?
The GRASP Fellowship is specifically designed for African women who are actively engaged in efforts to address gender inequalities within agricultural policies and systems. It seeks to attract individuals from various sectors, including government, academia, research institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), civil society, the private sector, and regional bodies. This fellowship is open to women at different stages of their careers—whether you are a mid-career professional or someone just starting out in policy work, there is a place for you.
For the third cohort, the fellowship is targeting applicants from the following countries: Ghana, Rwanda, Malawi, Mozambique, Nigeria, and Uganda.
What Do Fellows Gain?
Fellows selected for the GRASP Fellowship will receive extensive training in areas crucial for shaping gender-responsive policies, including leadership, negotiation skills, and gender and agrifood systems policies. This customized training is designed to help you understand the intricacies of policy formulation, policy analysis through a gender lens, and how to effectively advocate for and implement change.
In addition to training, successful applicants will benefit from mentorship, coaching, and peer learning opportunities. This holistic support system ensures that fellows have the tools and guidance necessary to succeed in their roles as policy leaders.
Hands-On Policy Experience
One of the highlights of the GRASP Fellowship is the opportunity to gain hands-on experience. Fellows will design and implement policy innovation projects focusing on key policies they are passionate about. This gives fellows the chance to apply what they have learned to real-world challenges, and directly contribute to advancing gender-responsive policies in their countries.
For example, since the fellowship’s launch, fellows have been involved in innovative projects in sectors such as:
- Extension and advisory services
- Seed systems
- Climate change
- Land rights
These projects have already led to significant outcomes, including new policies and initiatives that directly address the gender gaps in these sectors.
Success Stories from Previous Cohorts
The impact of the GRASP Fellowship can be seen in the success stories of past fellows. For example, Monica Kansiime, a 2022 AWARD Policy Fellow, shared her experience:
“Participation in the Fellowship and continuous mentorship has significantly enhanced my understanding of policy analysis. With this new knowledge, I reviewed agri-food policies in Uganda to understand gender gaps in the policy. I also secured funding of £2,000 through a publication recognition award by the CABI Development Fund (CDF) and conducted a Rapid Market Assessment on Gender and Food Safety in Kampala’s Fruit and Vegetable Markets. The findings, packaged in a Factsheet, will inform the policy review process.”
These accomplishments demonstrate how the fellowship not only advances policy analysis skills but also leads to tangible outcomes that improve the lives of women in agriculture.
Why the GRASP Fellowship Matters
Agriculture and agrifood systems are pivotal to Africa’s economic growth, and policies in this sector have a profound impact on the livelihoods of millions. However, gender inequalities remain a significant barrier to achieving inclusive development within this sector. The GRASP Fellowship seeks to address these gaps by empowering African women to take leadership roles in policy development, ensuring that the policies created are responsive to the needs of all, particularly marginalized and vulnerable groups.
By participating in the fellowship, you will join a growing network of over 40 women from 12 African countries who are working together to catalyze policy reforms and create more equitable agrifood systems. You will also contribute to shaping policies that affect millions of lives, especially women and youth in rural communities.
Application Process and Timeline
To apply for the third cohort of the GRASP Fellowship, visit the application portal here. Be sure to review the application guidelines carefully to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria and understand the application process.
The application deadline is midnight on April 21, 2025, East Africa Time (GMT+3). Late applications will not be accepted, so please submit your application before the deadline.
Fellows will be selected based on their passion for gender equality in agriculture, their experience in policy work, and their commitment to driving impactful change in their respective countries.
The GRASP Fellowship is more than just a professional development program—it’s an opportunity to become part of a transformative movement that is reshaping Africa’s agrifood systems. As a fellow, you will not only enhance your skills and broaden your career opportunities, but you will also contribute to advancing gender equality and empowering women across the continent.
Apply now for the 2025 GRASP Fellowship and join a network of African women leaders committed to shaping the future of agrifood policy in Africa!
