Gates Foundation AI Fellowship Program 2026/27

Applications are open for the Gates Foundation AI Fellows Program for Africa. This is the first Africa-based cohort. The programme recruits AI talent to apply artificial intelligence to global health, development, and education. Fellows join the Foundation’s Africa team for 12 months.

Program Snapshot

• Host Organization: Gates Foundation, Africa Regional Offices
• Funding: Paid, full-time, 12-month limited-term employment; salary not stated
• Locations: Nairobi, Abuja, Addis Ababa, or Johannesburg
• Duration: 12 months
• Eligibility: Bachelor’s or master’s degree holders with at least two years of applied AI experience
• Application Deadline: November 11, 2026

Focus Areas

• AI for global health and development
• Health supply chains and medicine stockouts
• Decision-support tools and public financial management
• Responsible and ethical AI

About the Fellowship

Fellows work with the Africa team, partners, and government counterparts. They receive one or two high-priority projects. Sample projects include decision-support tools for health financing and tools to reduce medicine stockouts. Fellows collaborate across global health, gender equality, development, and growth teams. They also gain mentorship and exposure to senior leaders.

What Fellows Receive

Fellows hold a paid employment role at the Foundation. They gain access to the Foundation’s partner network. They also build a portfolio of real-world impact. Fellows own projects from day one. The listing does not state salary or specific benefits for this limited-term role.

Who Can Apply

Applicants need a degree in computer science, data science, engineering, or applied math. They need at least two years of experience applying AI solutions. Hands-on experience with large language models is essential. Strong software engineering and communication skills are required. Applicants must legally work in the country of the role.

Required Materials

Applicants apply through the Gates Foundation’s Workday careers portal. Employment depends on a background check. Candidates needing accommodations should contact #339966;">#339966;" href="mailto:HR@gatesfoundation.org">HR@gatesfoundation.org.

How to Apply

Apply through the Gates Foundation careers portal before November 11, 2026.

#339966;">#339966;" href="https://gatesfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/Gates/job/Nairobi-Kenya/AI-Fellow---Africa-Regional-Offices_B021830-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Click Here to Apply

Conclusion

This programme offers skilled AI practitioners a paid, mission-driven role in Africa. The Foundation provides no visa sponsorship or relocation support. Applicants should confirm location, pay, and benefits before applying. Review all details through the Foundation’s official careers page.

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