AI Ethics Fellowship 2026 in Africa

AI Ethics Fellowship 2026 is a transformative opportunity for mid-career professionals in Africa to champion responsible AI in governance and civic technology. Offered by Code for Africa through the Digitalise Youth consortium, this fellowship focuses on developing research and policy recommendations for the ethical adoption of AI tools while safeguarding individual rights.

Code for Africa (CfA) is the continent’s largest network of civic technology and data journalism labs, with teams in 21 countries. Through the Digitalise Youth consortium, CfA partners with organizations like AfricTivistes, European Partnership for Democracy, Canal France International, World Scout Bureau Africa, and Kofi Annan Foundation to empower youth activists and civil society organizations across the Sahel and neighboring regions.

Benefits of AI Ethics Fellowship 2026

• Stipend: $500 per month
• Mentorship: Guidance from CfA’s TechLab and support from partner institutions.
• Training: Access to courses on information integrity and digital security.
• Real-World Impact: Opportunity to engage in global discussions on AI ethics in Africa.
• Networking: Collaboration with the consortium and regional networks.
• Showcasing: Presenting capstone projects at local, national, continental, and global events.

Eligibility Criteria for the AI Ethics Fellowship 2026

• Governance Expertise – Background in policy development, regulatory compliance, or digital rights related to technology, data or innovation.
• Policy Drafting – Skill in creating guidelines, legal briefs, or advisory reports.
• Global Frameworks – Knowledge of GDPR, OECD AI Principles, or UNESCO’s AI ethics recommendations.
• Privacy & Security – Familiarity with data protection laws and human rights considerations.
• Bias Mitigation – Experience conducting fairness audits or ethical risk assessments.
• Technical Collaboration – Ability to translate ethical principles into actionable technical specs for developers.
• Advocacy Skills – Track record of influencing policy or corporate AI practices.
• Cultural Sensitivity – Understanding of AI’s socio-cultural impacts on marginalised groups.
• Experience working with African civil society or multilateral institutions.
• Fluency in either English/French/Arabic (multilingual candidates preferred).
• Location: Senegal, Mauritania, Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad, Sudan, Guinea, Benin, Togo, Cameroon, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Somalia.
• Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to African communities.

How to Apply for AI Ethics Fellowship?

1. Eligible candidates are invited to fill this form by 30th March 2026 to join a transformative cohort of innovators addressing the Sahel’s most pressing challenges through ethical AI.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The AI Ethics Fellowship 2026 offers a $500 monthly stipend and expert mentorship from CfA’s TechLab. Participants access training in digital security and information integrity while building networks across Africa. Fellows showcase capstone projects at global events to drive real impact.