2026 Gender + AI Fellowship for Kenyan Women Journalists

Women journalists in Kenya have a new chance to explore how artificial intelligence affects their communities. The Africa Women Journalism Project (AWJP) and DW Akademie have opened applications for the 2026 Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship. This program helps 10 women journalists build skills and create stories on gender and technology.

Fellowship Overview

The fellowship runs from April to September 2026, lasting six months. It focuses on how AI shapes areas like finance, healthcare, governance, education, and digital services. AI can create chances for progress, but it also risks increasing bias and inequality for women and gender-diverse groups.

No tech background is needed. The program teaches AI literacy, gender-sensitive reporting, and investigative skills. Fellows will produce original stories for publication and learn to use AI tools responsibly in journalism.

Priority goes to journalists from Coastal, Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley (including Turkana), and Central regions.

Who Can Apply

Applicants must meet these criteria:

Be women journalists based in Kenya.
Work in print, radio, television, or digital media.
Join online training and mentorship.
Have a laptop and reliable internet.
Show interest in gender, technology, or digital topics.

Freelancers are welcome. Each applicant needs a signed letter of intent to publish from a newsroom or media outlet.

Benefits for Fellows

Selected participants receive:

Microgrants for story production.
Access to AI tools for journalism.
One-on-one mentorship from experienced journalists and editors.
Help with data analysis and visual storytelling.
Networking chances with media groups and partners.

The program ends with a public showcase of fellows’ work.

Program Phases

Training

Online sessions cover key topics:

AI basics for journalists.
Gender-sensitive reporting.
Social impacts of AI.
Ethical use of AI in news.
Reporting on data and algorithms.

Trainers include AWJP, DW Akademie, journalists, and AI experts.

Mentorship

Fellows get personal guidance on:

Story ideas.
Editorial feedback.
Reporting and production support.

Story Production

Fellows create four original stories each. Topics can include AI’s role in governance, development, finance, education, health, or climate. Support includes editorial and technical help.

Application Process

Apply by completing the online form. Upload:

CV (maximum 2 pages).
Three published work samples.
Four story pitches (total 800 words maximum).
Motivational statement (500 words maximum).
Signed letter of intent to publish.

Deadline is April 15, 2026. For questions, email [email protected]. More details at the official webpage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the fellowship?

Women journalists based in Kenya working in print, radio, TV, or digital media who have a laptop, internet, and interest in gender or tech topics.

What benefits do selected fellows receive?

Microgrants for stories, AI tools, personal mentorship, data analysis help, and networking opportunities.

What does the training cover?

Topics include AI basics, gender-sensitive reporting, social impacts of AI, ethical news use, and data reporting.

How do I apply and when is the deadline?

Complete the online form with CV, work samples, story pitches, motivational statement, and a publication letter; deadline is April 15, 2026.