Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026: Call for Kenyan Women Journalists
Imagine a world where artificial intelligence shapes everything from healthcare to education, but often leaves women behind. The Africa Women Journalism Project (AWJP) and DW Akademie have launched the Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026 just for Kenyan women journalists. This program helps you explore how AI affects women and gender-diverse groups while building your skills.
Applications opened recently, with a deadline of April 15, 2026. It targets 10 curious journalists ready to dig into gender and tech issues. You do not need tech experience to join; training covers it all.
Fellowship Goals and Focus
This six-month program runs from April to September 2026. It combines training, mentorship, and story production. Fellows investigate how AI and digital tools impact areas like governance, finance, health, education, development, and climate.
AI brings chances for better services, but it can also spread bias and widen gaps. The fellowship equips you to report on these effects for women and gender-diverse communities. You will also learn to use AI tools ethically in your work.
Past fellows from the first cohort created strong stories on gender and tech. This second round builds on that success.
Who Is Eligible?
The program seeks women journalists based in Kenya. You must work in print, radio, TV, or digital media. Freelancers can apply too.
Priority goes to those in Coastal, Nyanza, Western, Rift Valley (including Turkana), or Central regions. You need a laptop and steady internet for online sessions. Show interest in gender, tech, or digital topics.
A key requirement: Submit a signed letter from a newsroom or outlet promising to publish your stories. Attach your CV (up to 2 pages), three published samples, four story pitches (up to 800 words total), and a 500-word motivational statement.
Program Benefits
Selected fellows get real support to succeed. Benefits include story production microgrants to cover costs. You gain access to AI tools made for journalism.
Expect one-on-one mentorship from seasoned journalists and editors. They guide story ideas, give feedback, and help with reporting. Additional aid covers data analysis and visual storytelling.
Networking events connect you with media pros, editors, and partners. A public showcase at the end highlights your work.
Training Details
Online sessions teach key skills. Topics cover AI basics for journalists, gender-sensitive reporting, and probing AI’s social effects. Learn responsible AI use, plus reporting on data, algorithms, and digital systems.
Trainers include AWJP staff, DW Akademie experts, journalists, and AI specialists. Sessions fit busy schedules.
Mentorship and Story Production
Mentorship starts early and lasts through production. Your mentor helps shape ideas and refine drafts. Get tips on tough reporting challenges.
Produce four original stories during the fellowship. Each explores AI’s links to gender in real Kenyan contexts. Use AI tools to boost your work, with guidance on ethics.
Technical support ensures smooth data handling and visuals. Stories aim for publication in your committed outlet.
Application Process
Apply via the online form at the provided link. Upload all documents as listed. Review your pitches: Make them clear on AI-gender angles in priority areas.
Deadline is April 15, 2026. For questions, email the contact provided. Check the official AWJP page for full details.
This fellowship offers a chance to lead on vital stories. It empowers Kenyan women journalists to shape the AI conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the Gender + AI Reporting Fellowship 2026?
Women journalists based in Kenya who work in print, radio, TV, or digital media, including freelancers, with a letter from a news outlet promising to publish stories.
What is the application deadline?
Applications must be submitted by April 15, 2026, via the online form.
What benefits do selected fellows receive?
Fellows get story production microgrants, AI tools, one-on-one mentorship, training sessions, networking events, and technical support.
What documents are needed to apply?
Submit a CV, three published samples, four story pitches (up to 800 words total), a 500-word motivational statement, and a signed letter from a news outlet.