The 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship is a dynamic 3-month remote capacity-building programme for emerging leaders in the African data governance landscape. Organised by the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), the fellowship equips early-career professionals and changemakers with the knowledge, skills, and mentorship to influence data governance and digital transformation across Africa.
For the 2026 cohort, 10 fellows will be selected across Africa. At the end of the fellowship, each fellow will be required to develop a policy brief and a blog on one of the fellowship themes and present their findings at a dedicated workshop.
This is a unique opportunity to turn expertise into meaningful impact. Apply now and become part of this transformative programme!
Benefits
A stipend of US$1,500 maximum upon successful completion of the fellowship
Bi-weekly virtual masterclasses and expert sessions with sector leaders
Fellows’ work featured on CSEA’s platforms
Pan-African professional network
Requirements
The 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship is open to applicants who meet the following minimum criteria:
Hold a postgraduate degree and have at least one year of professional experience in social sciences, law, technology, data policy, or related fields
Be from, and resident in any African country
Be currently working or professionally engaged in data governance, digital policy, Artificial Intelligence, technology, or related areas within any of the following sectors: Government institutions; Private sector organisations; AI start-ups, including fintech, edtech, healthtech, agritech, and related ventures; Research, policy think tanks, or universities; and Civil society organisations.
Demonstrate an interest in and/or experience in the public sector, data governance, digital policy, and/or technology as an added advantage.
Be willing and able to commit at least 2 hours per week for the duration of the fellowship.
Have access to a reliable internet connection and a functional computer for the duration of the fellowship.
Selection Process
The fellowship is granted through a competitive selection process based on applications submitted by eligible candidates. All applications must be submitted through the online application system and in English.
Fellowship Structure
The 2026 Africa’s Data Future Fellowship will focus on the following thematic areas:
Digital Rights
Data Sharing
Data Value Chain
Digital Public Infrastructure
Regulatory Interoperability
Data Sovereignty2. Fellowship duration: 3 months (Starting in October, 2026)3. Institutional Placement: Fellows are expected to engage with a relevant institution within the data and digital policy ecosystem in their country during the fellowship period to disseminate the findings of their fellowship output4. Mode of delivery: Virtual5. Commitment: Bi-weekly virtual expert brainstorming sessions6. Language: English and French
Method of Application
Click Here to Apply
For More Details and Enquiries, kindly contact info@cseaafrica.org
For More Information,
Visit the Official Webpage
Application Deadline: September 18, 2026