The Cyber4Africa Programme is a fully funded initiative designed to equip African AI startups with the cybersecurity capabilities needed to build trust, resilience, and sustainable growth. It addresses the critical gap between AI innovation and the security infrastructure required to protect users, data, and institutional partnerships.
The programme is delivered by the AI Hub for Sustainable Development in partnership with Cyber 4.0 and Cisco Kenya. It combines expert advisory, hands-on training, and technical support to embed security-by-design into the AI development lifecycle, helping startups secure their products and scale with confidence.
Benefits of Cyber4Africa Programme 2026
- Receive a structured cybersecurity assessment and a prioritised action plan tailored to your technology stack and sector context
- Build the technical and operational security capability needed to protect your product, your users’ data, and your institutional partnerships
- Access expert-led training, remotely and in-person, from Cyber 4.0’s specialist network and Cisco’s Nairobi Training Centre
- Strengthen your position with institutional partners, investors, and regulators who increasingly require evidence of security practices before procurement or collaboration
- Join a community of African AI founders committed to building with security and trust at the centre
Eligibility Criteria for the Cyber4Africa Programme 2026
- Have an AI-enabled product, platform, or service at MVP stage or beyond
- Operate in environments with meaningful cybersecurity exposure
- Handle sensitive personal, financial, or operational data
- Are building in one or more of the programme’s five priority sectors: Healthcare and Digital Health, Fintech and Financial Services, Govtech and Civic Technology, Energy and Climate Technology, AI Infrastructure and Data Platforms
- Are Africa-based or building solutions for African markets
- Have the capacity to actively participate throughout the six-month programme
How to Apply for the Cyber4Africa Programme 2026
- Click Here to Submit Your Application via the provided Microsoft Forms link
- Ensure your startup meets the eligibility criteria before applying
- Prepare to participate actively in the six-month programme starting 1 July 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Cyber4Africa Programme. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Cyber4Africa Programme?
The Cyber4Africa Programme is a fully funded initiative by the AI Hub for Sustainable Development, in partnership with Cyber 4.0 and Cisco Kenya. It provides cybersecurity training, advisory, and technical support to African AI startups to help them build secure and trustworthy products.
Who can apply for the Cyber4Africa Programme?
African AI startups with an AI-enabled product at MVP stage or beyond, operating in sectors like healthcare, fintech, govtech, energy, or AI infrastructure. Startups must handle sensitive data and be based in Africa or building for African markets.
What is the deadline for the Cyber4Africa Programme?
The application deadline is 8 June 2026. The programme starts on 1 July 2026 and runs for six months.
What are the benefits of joining the Cyber4Africa Programme?
Participants receive a structured cybersecurity assessment, expert-led training (remote and in-person), technical support, and access to Cisco’s Nairobi Training Centre. They also join a community of AI founders focused on security and trust.
Is the Cyber4Africa Programme fully funded?
Yes, the Cyber4Africa Programme is fully funded. There are no costs for participating startups. All training, assessments, and support are provided at no charge.
What sectors does the Cyber4Africa Programme focus on?
The programme targets five priority sectors: Healthcare and Digital Health, Fintech and Financial Services, Govtech and Civic Technology, Energy and Climate Technology, and AI Infrastructure and Data Platforms.
How long is the Cyber4Africa Programme?
The programme runs for six months, starting on 1 July 2026. It includes three workstreams: Cyber Resilience and Awareness, Training and Capacity Building, and Technical and Operational Support.
What kind of training is provided in the Cyber4Africa Programme?
Training includes webinars on AI security essentials, a cybersecurity starter mini-course, and hands-on workshops at Cisco’s Cybersecurity Training Centre in Nairobi. Both remote and in-person options are available.
How do I apply for the Cyber4Africa Programme?
You can apply by clicking the ‘Click Here to Submit Your Application’ link on the official programme page. The application form is hosted on Microsoft Forms.
Who are the partners behind the Cyber4Africa Programme?
The programme is delivered by the AI Hub for Sustainable Development in partnership with Cyber 4.0 and Cisco Kenya. It is also supported by UNDP’s AI Trust and Safety Re-imagination Programme.
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