The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), in collaboration with Co-Develop and with generous funding support, has unveiled Phase II of its groundbreaking Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Journalism Fellowship Programme. This initiative, set to kick off in November 2024, aims to amplify public understanding and discourse surrounding Digital Public Goods (DPG) across Benin, Ghana, Nigeria, and Togo.
The programme will welcome 60 seasoned journalists from these countries, equipping them with the expertise to produce influential and high-quality journalism on DPI/DPG topics. Over a three-month period, fellows will engage in intensive training workshops, receive personalized mentorship, and be tasked with generating impactful stories that highlight the significance of digital infrastructure and public goods.
The fellowship includes a blend of virtual and in-person sessions tailored to each country’s context, supplemented by quarterly virtual refresher courses to foster ongoing learning and collaboration. Participants are expected to produce a minimum of five substantial stories, which will be published in their respective media outlets.
Key benefits of the fellowship include:
- Training and mentorship from leading experts.
- Reporting grants of up to $300 per story.
- A monthly stipend of $250 for the first three months.
- $1,000 support for partner newsrooms through the DPI/DPG Newsroom Partnership Programme.
- Travel grants for top reporters to attend international trainings and conferences.
Applicants must demonstrate strong social and communication skills, a collaborative spirit, and a track record of thorough journalistic work. Basic knowledge or experience in ICTs and digital issues is also required.
To apply, interested journalists should submit a 350-word statement of interest, a CV with two referees, a media organization support letter, and a copy of their national ID by September 30, 2024. Applications are country-specific, and forms can be accessed via the following links:
For further information, contact MFWA at info@mfwa.org or reach out to Dora B. Mawutor and Vivian Affoah at their respective emails.
