The Gender AI Reporting Fellowship 2026 in Kenya is a six-month program empowering women journalists to explore how artificial intelligence and digital technologies affect women and gender-diverse communities. Offered by the Africa Women Journalism Project (AWJP) in partnership with DW Akademie, the fellowship provides practical training in gender-sensitive journalism, AI literacy, and investigative storytelling, enabling participants to produce and publish original stories.
The Africa Women Journalism Project (AWJP) empowers women journalists across Africa to produce impactful, data-driven, and gender-sensitive journalism on underreported issues. DW Akademie is Deutsche Welle’s center for international media development and journalism training, supporting the human right to freedom of expression and access to information worldwide.
Benefits of Gender AI Reporting Fellowship
- Story production microgrants
- Access to selected AI tools for journalism
- Editorial mentorship from experienced journalists
- Support with data analysis and visual storytelling
- Opportunities for networking and professional development
Eligibility Criteria for the Gender AI Reporting Fellowship
- Women journalists based in Kenya
- Work in print, radio, television, or digital media
- Be able to participate in online training and mentorship
- Have access to a laptop and a reliable internet connection
- Demonstrate interest in reporting on gender, technology, or digital issues
- Freelance journalists are welcome to apply
- Applicants must submit a letter of intent to publish from a newsroom or media outlet
How to Apply for Gender AI Reporting Fellowship
- Complete the online application form
- Upload Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Upload three samples of published work
- Upload four story pitches (maximum 800 words total)
- Upload motivational statement (maximum 500 words)
- Upload signed letter of intent to publish
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Gender AI Reporting Fellowship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Gender AI Reporting Fellowship?
The Gender AI Reporting Fellowship is a six-month program for women journalists in Kenya to investigate how AI and digital technologies impact women and gender-diverse communities. It includes training, mentorship, and story production support.
Who is eligible to apply for the fellowship?
Eligible applicants are women journalists based in Kenya working in print, radio, television, or digital media. They must have internet access, a laptop, and interest in gender/technology reporting. Freelancers are welcome.
What are the benefits of the fellowship?
Fellows receive story production microgrants, access to AI tools, editorial mentorship, data analysis support, and networking opportunities. The program provides training and mentorship over six months.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is April 15, 2026. Applicants must submit an online form with a CV, work samples, story pitches, motivational statement, and a letter of intent to publish.
How many fellows are selected?
The fellowship selects 10 women journalists. Priority is given to applicants from Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley (including Turkana), Central, and Coastal regions of Kenya.
What are the expected outputs from fellows?
Each fellow must develop and publish four original journalism stories during the fellowship, exploring how AI affects women and gender-diverse communities, and experiment with AI tools for reporting.
Is prior AI or technology reporting experience required?
No, you do not need to be a technology reporter or have prior AI experience to apply. The fellowship includes training on AI literacy and responsible use of AI tools in journalism.
What does the fellowship duration and structure involve?
The fellowship runs from April to September 2026. It includes online training sessions, one-on-one mentorship, story production with editorial guidance, and concludes with a public showcase.
Who are the organizing partners?
The fellowship is organized by the Africa Women Journalism Project (AWJP) in partnership with DW Akademie. AWJP empowers women journalists, and DW Akademie focuses on media development and training.
How are applicants selected?
Selection is based on quality of story ideas, journalism experience, motivation, interest in gender and technology issues, and regional/media sector diversity. Shortlisted applicants may have a virtual interview.
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