Code for Africa (CfA) WanaData Fellowship 2026 for African Data Journalists and Data Scientists

The Code for Africa (CfA) WanaData Fellowship 2026 is a competitive, stipend-based professional fellowship designed to strengthen data-driven storytelling and research across Africa. Targeted at African data journalists and data scientists, this fellowship aims to close critical information gaps related to gender, digital rights, civic engagement, and democratic governance in fragile and transitioning regions of the continent.

Through this program, selected fellows are supported to produce impactful, evidence-based content that informs public discourse and policy conversations. At the same time, fellows are immersed in a collaborative ecosystem that prioritizes ethical data use, digital security, and inclusive storytelling. As a result, participants are positioned not only as skilled professionals but also as contributors to democratic resilience and social accountability across Africa.

The 2026 fellowship cycle is implemented under the WanaData Initiative, a flagship program of Code for Africa, in collaboration with leading regional and international partners. These partnerships ensure that fellows receive both financial support and long-term capacity development throughout the fellowship period.

Code for Africa (CfA) WanaData Fellowship 2026

About Code for Africa and the WanaData Initiative

Code for Africa (CfA) is the continent’s largest civic technology and data journalism organization. It works with media houses, civil society groups, and technologists to strengthen investigative reporting, enhance digital resilience, and promote accountability through data-driven approaches.

Within this ecosystem, the WanaData Initiative functions as a pan-African network of data journalists, analysts, and researchers. Its primary objective is to improve the quality, accessibility, and ethical use of data in storytelling and public-interest reporting. Consequently, WanaData fellows are encouraged to apply rigorous methodologies while ensuring that human rights, privacy, and gender sensitivity are respected.

The 2026 WanaData Fellowship has been strategically aligned with regional democratic challenges, particularly in areas affected by political instability, digital repression, and weak institutional accountability.

Purpose and Objectives of the Fellowship

The Code for Africa WanaData Fellowship 2026 has been structured to achieve several interrelated objectives.

First, it seeks to empower African youth voices, particularly those working at the intersection of data, journalism, and civic engagement. By providing financial and technical support, early- and mid-career professionals are empowered to undertake complex investigations that would otherwise be challenging to sustain.

Second, the fellowship aims to address gender-related data gaps within the digital and democratic space. Many policy discussions around cybersecurity, data protection, and civic participation lack gender-disaggregated evidence. Through this fellowship, such gaps are deliberately targeted.

Additionally, the program fosters the development of a secure and inclusive digital environment. Fellows are trained to work responsibly with sensitive data, ensuring compliance with ethical standards and privacy frameworks.

Ultimately, the fellowship contributes to broader democratic goals by supporting research and storytelling aligned with SDG 16, which focuses on peace, justice, and strong institutions.

Thematic Focus Areas

Fellows selected for the 2026 WanaData Fellowship are expected to work within clearly defined thematic areas. These themes have been selected based on their relevance to governance, digital transformation, and human rights in Africa.

Key focus areas include:

• Cybersecurity and personal data protection
• Gender and digital inclusion
• E-democracy and civic technology
• Digital mobilisation within social movements
• Freedom of expression and media rights
• Human rights and governance in fragile regions

Although fellows are given creative independence, alignment with these themes is required. This ensures that outputs contribute meaningfully to regional and continental policy conversations.

Eligibility Criteria

To maintain the quality and integrity of the fellowship, eligibility requirements have been carefully defined.

Applicants must be registered members of the WanaData community and must demonstrate at least one year of professional experience as a data journalist, data scientist, or data storyteller. Evidence of published or completed work is required, and applicants must be able to provide a verifiable portfolio.

Geographically, preference is given to applicants based in the Sahel region, neighboring West Africa, or the Horn of Africa. However, exceptional candidates from other African regions may also be considered.

Language proficiency is essential. Applicants must be fluent in English or French, while bilingual ability is considered an added advantage.

Furthermore, candidates must demonstrate a strong interest in:

• Digital rights and online freedoms
• Gender-focused research and advocacy
• Youth civic engagement
• Ethical data practices

Applicants are also expected to show the ability to track their outputs and submit structured reports. Willingness to participate in mentorship sessions, training programs, and community outreach activities is mandatory.

Finally, compliance with WanaData’s policies on attribution, privacy, and safe spaces is strictly required throughout the fellowship.

Fellowship Benefits and Financial Support

Although the WanaData Fellowship 2026 is not fully funded, it offers substantial support that allows fellows to focus on meaningful work.

Monthly Stipend

Each fellow receives a monthly stipend of USD 250. This stipend is intended to support living costs and enable sustained engagement with fellowship activities throughout the program period.

Technical Training and Tools

Beyond financial support, fellows benefit from hands-on access to data tools, digital security resources, and analytical platforms. These tools are essential for producing high-quality, data-driven outputs.

Mentorship and Professional Development

One-on-one mentorship is provided by experienced data practitioners and journalists within the Code for Africa network. In addition, fellows receive ongoing guidance from CfA’s Communities and Academy Team, ensuring both technical and editorial growth.

Long-Term Career Impact

While the stipend may appear modest, the long-term value of the fellowship lies in capacity building, visibility, and professional credibility. Many alumni of CfA programs go on to secure international grants, leadership roles, and cross-border collaborations.

Application Deadline

The application deadline for the Code for Africa (CfA) WanaData Fellowship 2026 is 11 January 2026. Applications submitted after this date are typically not considered.

Given the competitive nature of the fellowship, early preparation is strongly advised. Applicants are encouraged to refine their portfolios and clearly articulate their interest in the fellowship’s thematic priorities.

Application Process

Applications are submitted through the official Code for Africa platforms. Interested candidates are expected to:

• Confirm active membership within the WanaData community
• Prepare a strong portfolio of published or completed work
• Demonstrate alignment with the fellowship’s thematic focus
• Apply before the stated deadline

Applicants are advised to regularly check the official Code for Africa website for detailed application guidelines and updates.

Direct Application Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeRofMgGeFlSPvyzDDqG8iJFQICE1KtdI-1MH-7W3ASbjdubg/viewform?pli=1

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