To contribute to the availability of basic knowledge and skills for the provision of palliative care in the African region, the African Palliative Care Association (APCA) has developed a competencybased core curriculum framework for use in introductory training on palliative care. The curriculum is based on the APCA Standards for Providing Quality Palliative Care Across Africa to ensure that care providers are trained to the appropriate competence for their cadre and level of skill. This curriculum therefore aims to facilitate the development of the best basic skills and attitudes required for the delivery of palliative care services that meet the desired standards of palliative care. The curriculum incorporates theoretical, practical, mentorship and supervision components that are critical to the effective application of knowledge in practice.