Gates Foundation AI Fellowship 2026 in Africa: Eligibility & How to Apply

The Gates Foundation AI Fellowship 2026 in Africa offers a 12-month opportunity to build practical AI solutions for public good. Fellows join the Africa team and work with partners and government counterparts on priority health and development challenges.

Location: Abuja, Nigeria; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Johannesburg, South Africa; or Nairobi, Kenya
Duration: 12 months, full-time limited-term employment
Deadline: 11 November 2026; closing time and time zone not specified
Requisition: B021830

About the Africa AI Fellows cohort

The first Africa-based cohort expands the foundation’s AI Fellows programme following cohorts in the United States and India. Each fellow takes on one or two priority projects, with opportunities to work across teams and adapt as project needs change.

Possible assignments include tools that analyse financing flows, identify delivery bottlenecks, reduce shortages of essential medicines, and help health planners prioritise interventions within available budgets. Work may combine AI with data engineering, analytics, optimisation and conventional software.

Who can apply?

• A bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science, data science, engineering, applied mathematics or a related discipline.
• At least two years of experience applying AI solutions; experience in health or agricultural systems is preferred.
• Practical AI and machine-learning knowledge, including model evaluation and experience with large language models, alongside software and data skills.
• Experience building prototypes, clear communication, teamwork and a commitment to responsible AI for equitable development.
• Legal permission to work in the country of placement without visa sponsorship. Relocation support is not provided.

Direct AI research experience is not required. Applicants should be ready to learn across technical areas and explain their work to both technical and non-technical colleagues.

What fellows will do

• Define problems with project sponsors and build prototypes grounded in local needs.
• Develop and evaluate AI models, data pipelines and reliable software.
• Document findings and recommend next steps for deployment or scale.
• Deliver workshops and guidance that help teams use AI effectively.
• Address bias, privacy, fairness and explainability throughout development.

Benefits and professional development

Fellows gain project ownership, mentorship, exposure to senior leadership and access to the foundation’s network across government, research, NGOs and industry. The listing describes employee benefits including healthcare coverage, paid leave and retirement contributions. It does not publish a salary figure.

How to apply

Open the application page, select Apply and follow the portal instructions for requisition B021830. Submit by 11 November 2026. Review the location and work-authorisation conditions before applying. Employment is subject to a successful background check.

Candidates needing an accommodation during recruitment can contact HR@gatesfoundation.org with the position number and a brief description of the support needed.