Code for Africa AI Ethics Fellowship 2026

Applications are open for the 2026 Code for Africa (CfA) AI Ethics Fellowship, a program designed to support mid-career professionals who want to contribute to ethical artificial intelligence governance across Africa. The fellowship is part of the Digitalise Youth consortium, which aims to strengthen responsible technology development across the continent. Selected fellows will conduct research and develop policy recommendations for the ethical adoption of AI tools in governance and civic technology sectors. The program focuses on ensuring that AI development protects individuals, promotes fairness, and strengthens democratic institutions. Fellows will analyse regional regulations such as the African Union Cyber Security Convention and ECOWAS data laws, while also examining global standards including GDPR and OECD AI Principles. Participants will produce key deliverables including: • AI workplace policies • Culturally informed impact assessments • Regulatory analysis reports • Ethical risk evaluations • Policy recommendations for responsible AI adoption Fellows will receive technical guidance and mentorship from Code for Africa’s TechLab, DataLab, and AI Sandbox, as well as policy experts from the Digitalise Youth consortium and partner institutions. Eligibility Applicants should be mid-career professionals with experience in: • Digital governance or public policy • AI ethics or technology ethics • Data protection and privacy law • Policy drafting and regulatory frameworks • Bias and ethical risk assessment • Digital rights or civic technology Candidates should also demonstrate experience working with African civil society organizations, governments, or multilateral institutions. Applicants must be fluent in English, French, or Arabic. Benefits Monthly Stipend Selected fellows receive $500 per month during the fellowship. Duration The program runs for three months. Mentorship Fellows will receive guidance from experts at CfA TechLab and partner organizations. Training Participants gain access to courses and training on digital security, information integrity, and ethical AI development. Global Networking Fellows collaborate with regional and international experts working on AI governance and technology policy. Impact Participants will present their research and policy recommendations to regional and international stakeholders.