Africa’s Data Future Fellowship 2026: Paid 3-Month Virtual Fellowship for African Professionals
Overview
The Africa's Data Future Fellowship 2026 is a three-month virtual programme for emerging African professionals in data governance, digital policy, artificial intelligence and technology. It is organised by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA) and will select 10 fellows from across Africa. The programme is expected to begin in October 2026 and is delivered in English and French.
Fellows take part in bi-weekly virtual expert brainstorming sessions, expert-led masterclasses and networking, and engage with relevant institutions in their national data and digital policy ecosystems. Thematic areas are digital rights, data sharing, the data value chain, digital public infrastructure, regulatory interoperability and data sovereignty.
What you get
Successful fellows can receive a maximum stipend of US$1,500 on completing the programme. They also gain exposure to sector experts, a pan-African professional network and a chance to have their work featured on CSEA platforms. Each fellow produces a detailed policy brief, a blog post on one of the thematic areas and a presentation of findings at a dedicated workshop.
Who can apply
Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree, have at least one year of professional experience, and be from and currently living in an African country. They should work or be engaged in data governance, digital policy, AI, technology or a related field, connected to government, private organisations, AI startups, research institutions, universities, think tanks or civil society. Professionals in fintech, healthtech, edtech and agritech may also be relevant. Fellows must commit at least two hours per week and have reliable internet and a working computer.
Requirements
The application consists of an online form, a two-page CV, a statement of interest of up to 300 words explaining interest in the thematic areas, a problem statement of up to 300 words describing a data governance or digitalisation challenge in the applicant's sub-region, and a writing sample such as a policy brief or research paper.
Key dates
The application deadline is 18 September 2026, and the fellowship starts in October 2026.