African Union Launched Logo Competition for 2027
The African Union is seeking original design entries from young citizens for its 2027 Theme of the Year.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Africa
Live Poll
Do youth-focused design competitions successfully encourage younger people to participate in civic life?
The African Union has opened a competition inviting citizens aged 18 to 24 from member states to design a logo for its 2027 Theme of the Year. The initiative celebrates the organization's 25th anniversary and emphasizes continental integration.
Why it matters
This competition seeks to harness the creativity of Africa's youth to establish a visual identity for a milestone anniversary. The winning design will serve as the official symbol for the African Union throughout 2027.
The competition offers a top prize of $5,000, followed by $2,000 for second place and $1,000 for third. Only original human-created designs are permitted, with the use of generative artificial intelligence strictly prohibited.
The players
African Union
The African Union is a continental organization consisting of 55 member states located on the continent of Africa.
The details
Applicants must submit their work directly through the official African Union commission webpage to be considered for the prize. In addition to the monetary awards, the first-place designer will be invited to participate in the African Union Summit.
Timeline
The competition launched on September 24, 2026.
The submission deadline is October 23, 2026.
The winning design will be used throughout 2027.
Travel Outlook
This initiative follows the African Union's annual Theme of the Year selection process by inviting public youth participation. It marks a departure from traditional internal selection by involving citizens in defining the visual identity of the organization.
Eligible citizens between the ages of 18 and 24 must submit their original, non-AI designs before the October 23, 2026 deadline. Participants should ensure their work meets all specified requirements on the official African Union commission website to qualify for the prize.
The takeaway
This competition provides a unique platform for young Africans to contribute to the legacy of the continent's primary intergovernmental body. Designers are encouraged to focus on themes of integration and history to best capture the spirit of the 25th anniversary.
Further reading
For more news and updates from the region, visit the Africa section.
Live Poll
Do youth-focused design competitions successfully encourage younger people to participate in civic life?
