Applications are currently being accepted for the 2026 edition of the prestigious Code for Africa (CfA) WanaData Fellowship. This program offers a valuable opportunity for fourteen (14) African data journalists and data scientists to receive a monthly stipend of USD 250 while engaging in impactful work that amplifies youth voices and fosters a safer digital environment through gender-focused initiatives.
This Fellowship is a collaborative effort involving several notable partners, including Code for Africa, the European Partnership for Democracy (EPD), AfricTivistes, CFI Media Development, the World Scout Bureau Africa Regional Office, and the Kofi Annan Foundation (KAF), with additional contributions from the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD).
Under the umbrella of the WanaData Initiative, this project addresses critical content shortages concerning gender-related projects tied to the African Union Convention on Cybersecurity and Personal Data Protection. It also explores themes such as e-democracy, digital activism within social movements, Sustainable Development Goal 16 (SDG16), freedom of expression, and human rights issues affecting the Sahel region, its neighboring West African countries, and the Horn of Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
- Applicants must be registered members of WanaData with a minimum of one year’s professional experience as a data scientist or data storyteller, which includes roles such as journalism or media content creation.
- A demonstrable portfolio of published work must be provided.
- Preference is given to candidates residing in the Sahel, neighboring West Africa, or the Horn of Africa, although exceptional candidates from other African regions may still be considered.
- Proficiency in either English or French is required, with bilingual abilities considered advantageous.
- Candidates should have a strong passion for digital rights, gender issues, and youth civic engagement.
- Experience conducting research related to gender data is essential.
- A genuine interest in the Fellowship’s thematic areas — which include cybersecurity, personal data protection, e-democracy, digital mobilization in social movements, gender-focused SDG16, freedom of expression, and human rights — is necessary.
- Applicants must be capable of monitoring their contributions carefully and submitting timely reports.
- A willingness to engage actively in mentorship programs, training sessions, and outreach efforts is expected.
- Compliance with WanaData’s policies regarding attribution, privacy, and maintaining a respectful, inclusive environment is mandatory.
Perks and Support
- Financial Support: Each selected Fellow will receive a monthly stipend of USD 250 to support their work throughout the program.
- Capacity Building: Participants will gain access to hands-on training in data tools and technical skills.
- Mentorship: Fellows benefit from personalized mentorship and ongoing assistance provided by the CfA Communities and Academy Team.
For those interested in applying or seeking additional details about the program, please Visit the Official Webpage of the Code for Africa (CfA) WanaData Fellowship. The application deadline is 11 January 2026, so prospective candidates are encouraged to submit their applications promptly.
