The Afreximbank-Edordu Research Competition invites postgraduate students across Africa and participating Caribbean states to produce rigorous, original research on the issues defining the continent's economic trajectory: trade, finance, integration, and sustainable development. The competition honors the intellectual legacy of Mr. Christopher Edordu, Pioneer President of Afreximbank, whose vision shaped the institution's commitment to African economic sovereignty. Winning research doesn't sit on a shelf, the top three papers are distilled into actionable policy briefs, presented to Afreximbank leadership, and showcased at the Bank's major events.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Status: Be a postgraduate student (Master's or PhD) currently enrolled at an accredited tertiary institution in Africa or an eligible CARICOM state. Registration must be active at the time of submission, recent graduates not yet enrolled in a postgraduate programme are not eligible.
- Nationality: Hold nationality of an African country or an eligible CARICOM state (Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, or Suriname).
- Originality: Submit an original, unpublished research paper not under consideration for publication elsewhere at the time of submission, addressing one of the competition's announced themes.
How the Competition Works
Applicants submit a complete research paper of 3,000-5,000 words through the official portal. Papers are screened for eligibility, formatting, and plagiarism, then anonymized and scored by a jury against a rubric covering originality, methodological rigor, clarity, contribution to development, and relevance to Afreximbank's operations.
Prizes
- First Prize: $20,000, plus support toward books and tuition for continued study.
- Second Prize: $15,000.
- Third Prize: $10,000.
All winners receive a certificate and an invitation to present at an Afreximbank event. The authors of the three winning papers get to extract an implementable policy brief from their research and present their findings at a forum designated by the Bank, following formal approval by Afreximbank's Internal Working Group.
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How to Apply
Submit your research paper through the official Afreximbank-Edordu Research Competition portal before the deadline of September 30, 2026.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
