Are you a young professional or recent graduate passionate about fighting hunger and advancing food security? The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations has officially opened applications for its 2026 Regional Office for Africa (RAF) Internship Programme. This is a unique opportunity for motivated individuals to gain hands-on experience and contribute meaningfully to international efforts aimed at ensuring everyone has access to enough high-quality food for an active, healthy life.
About FAO and Its Mission
The FAO leads global initiatives to defeat hunger and improve nutrition standards. With over 195 member countries and operations in more than 130 nations, FAO’s work is pivotal in driving food security, sustainable agriculture, and rural development. The RAF Internship Programme is a key component of FAO’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in these critical fields.
Overview of the Internship Programme
The FAO RAF Internship Programme is designed to attract talented young women and men who are eager to share fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and the latest academic knowledge in FAO’s areas of focus. Selected interns will gain valuable practical experience through assignments that complement their academic backgrounds, all within the context of one of the world’s leading international organizations.
- Reporting Lines: Interns will work closely with a designated supervisor to guide their learning and professional development.
- Technical Focus: Assignments are tailored to the candidate’s academic profile and the current needs of FAO, ensuring a rich and relevant internship experience.
- Tasks & Responsibilities: Specific duties will be outlined in the Terms of Reference (TOR) provided by the hiring office.
Who Can Apply? Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for the 2026 FAO RAF Internship Programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Status:
- Must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree programme at a recognized institution, or be a recent graduate.
- Only degrees from institutions listed in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) are accepted.
- Field of Study:
- Candidates should specialize in areas relevant to FAO’s mission and work.
- Language Proficiency:
- Working knowledge of at least one FAO language (Arabic, Chinese, English, French, Russian, or Spanish) is required.
- Knowledge of a second FAO language is considered an asset.
- Nationality:
- Applicants must be nationals of FAO member countries.
- Age:
- Applicants must be between 21 and 30 years old at the time of application.
- Skills:
- Ability to adapt to an international, multicultural environment.
- Strong communication skills.
FAO Core Competencies
Successful candidates will demonstrate or have the potential to develop the following core competencies:
- Results Focus
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Building Effective Relationships
- Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement
Why Apply?
Joining the FAO RAF Internship Programme is more than just an internship; it’s a chance to:
- Broaden your professional network
- Develop new skills
- Contribute to global solutions for hunger and food security
- Experience working in a multicultural, international environment
How to Apply & More Information
Ready to take the next step in your career and make a positive impact on the world?
For full details and to apply, please visit the Official Webpage of the FAO Regional Office for Africa (RAF) Internship Programme.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a global movement for a hunger-free world! Good luck to all applicants!



