About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
Applications are now open for the 2026 Code for Africa AI For Good Fellowship. The Digitalise Youth consortium, through Code for Africa (CfA), is offering six fellowships for technologists in Africa to work with Human Rights Defender (HRD) organisations and help them strengthen their impact through the responsible use of AI.
The HRD organisations will be based in the Sahel, as well as neighbouring countries in West and East Africa, so familiarity with the region and its political, social, and digital realities is essential.
Through this fellowship, technologists will support HRDs to strengthen existing AI-enabled initiatives and resources, or to design new tools and workflows where needed. Fellows should therefore have proven experience building practical AI tools, especially using generative AI tools, including large language models (LLMs), as well as a strong commitment to human rights and responsible AI practice. Activities will include co-designing AI tools with HRDs, supporting safe and context-sensitive deployment, and generating actionable insights to inform policy, advocacy, and public-interest interventions.
Fellows may develop AI-enabled tools/interventions independently or in collaboration with other experts. These solutions may include multilingual research assistants, tools for analysing and summarising large volumes of text, systems for detecting or tracking harmful narratives, and workflow automation that strengthens civic engagement and public-interest response. Expected deliverables include research briefs, prototype AI tools, and practical plans for scaling AI-enabled interventions that strengthen HRDs’ work and help safeguard public discourse.
Selected fellows will receive support from CfA’s TechLab, DataLab, and AI Sandbox, as well as mentorship from global AI experts, civil society organisations, and policymakers. The wider partnership includes climate resilience networks, public health organisations, and digital rights advocates, providing additional opportunities for prototyping, testing, and scaling solutions.
Requirements
The fellowship seek problem-solvers with:
Social Impact – Demonstrated experience in developing AI-driven solutions that enhance civic information, support human rights defenders, or address societal challenges.
Data Fluency – Expertise in collecting, cleaning, and analysing socio-economic or environmental datasets.
How to apply
Application details
To apply for this opportunity, please contact the provider directly. Make sure you have your CV, personal statement, and any required documents ready.