About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Supporting Evidence-Based Trade Policy
The ODI Trade Fellow will be embedded within Kenya’s State Department for Trade, working closely with government officials to strengthen trade policy analysis and support evidence-based decision-making. The fellowship is designed to enhance institutional capacity while contributing to national, regional, and international trade policy initiatives.
The successful candidate will play a key role in producing policy-relevant research, supporting trade negotiations, and helping develop analytical approaches that inform Kenya’s economic and trade strategies.
Key Responsibilities
The selected Trade Fellow will contribute to several strategic areas, including:
Conducting rigorous research to support Kenya’s trade policy development.
Strengthening the State Department for Trade’s analytical and research capacity.
Supporting evidence-based policy formulation and implementation.
Engaging with government agencies, regional organizations, and international development partners.
Contributing to high-level trade policy discussions and negotiations.
Promoting data-driven approaches to trade and economic decision-making.
Candidate Requirements
The fellowship is intended for experienced professionals with a strong background in trade and economic policy.
Charity & Philanthropy
Applicants should possess:
A Master’s degree in Economics or a closely related field.
At least five years of professional experience in trade policy, economic policy, or a related discipline, or equivalent extensive experience.
Strong analytical and research skills.
Experience producing policy-relevant economic analysis.
Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication abilities.
A demonstrated interest in public policy, international trade, and institutional capacity development.
Fellowship Benefits
The ODI Trade Fellowship offers participants the opportunity to work directly within the Kenyan government while gaining valuable experience in national policymaking and international trade.
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The role provides an opportunity to:
Influence Kenya’s trade policy through evidence-based research.
Build institutional capacity within the State Department for Trade.
Collaborate with senior government officials and international partners.
Participate in regional and international trade policy discussions.
Contribute to economic development through practical policy solutions.
Position Summary
Interested professionals should note the following fellowship details:
Position: ODI Trade Fellow
Host Institution: Kenya State Department for Trade (SDT)
Partner Organization: ODI Global
Funding Partner: TradeMark Africa
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Assignment Duration: One year, with the possibility of extension
Application Deadline: 9 July 2026
Experienced trade and economic policy professionals who are passionate about strengthening public institutions, advancing evidence-based policymaking, and contributing to Kenya’s trade and economic development are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
How to apply

