The African narrative is being rewritten, this time, with data. As the continent moves toward a more digital and evidence-based future, the voices of the youth and women must be at the centre of the conversation.
To make this a reality, Code for Africa (CfA) has officially launched the WanaData Fellowship 2026: Digitalise Youth Voices in Africa. This stipend-based programme is calling on 14 of the continent’s most promising data journalists and data scientists to lead high-impact gender and youth-focused projects.
The Mission: Fact-Checking the Future
Part of a massive joint initiative involving the Kofi Annan Foundation, AfricTivistes, and CFI Media Development, this fellowship is designed to bridge the content gap in critical areas. Fellows won't just be "learning"; they will be creating content that influences:
Digital Mobilisation: Understanding how social movements use tech.
Cybersecurity & Data Protection: Championing the African Union Convention on Personal Data.
SDG 16: Promoting peace, justice, and strong institutions through gender-sensitive data.
E-Democracy: Strengthening freedom of expression in the digital age.
The Fellowship Package: Support for Your Vision
The WanaData Fellowship is designed to empower participants by removing financial and technical barriers. Selected fellows will receive:
Monthly Stipend: A payment of USD 250 per month for the duration of the program.
Duration: A 6-month intensive commitment.
Technical Growth: Access to hands-on data tools and specialized technical training.
One-on-One Mentorship: Direct guidance from CfA’s world-class Communities and Academy Team.
Who Should Apply?
This is a specialized fellowship for those already working at the intersection of information and technology. To be eligible, you must:
Be a WanaData Member: Registration is required, along with at least one year of experience as a data scientist or storyteller (journalist, blogger, content creator).
Focus Region: Ideally based in the Sahel region, neighboring West Africa, or the Horn of Africa (though exceptional candidates from across Africa are encouraged to apply).
Language: Be fluent in English or French.
Passion for Gender & Tech: Have a proven interest in digital rights, gender data research, and youth civic engagement.
Key Dates to Remember
Application Deadline: January 11, 2026
Program Structure: 6 months of remote, project-based work.
How to Apply: Submit your portfolio and expression of interest via the official Google Form linked on the CfA portal.
In a world increasingly driven by algorithms, Africa needs storytellers who can ensure those algorithms, and the policies they influence, reflect the reality of its youth.
Are you ready to digitalize the voice of a generation?