Apply Now: Data Governance in Africa Research Fund Program

Application deadline: March 11, 2025

In an era where data governance is becoming increasingly critical for economic growth and human rights protection, the Mozilla Foundation is offering an exciting opportunity for African-based researchers. The Data Governance in Africa Research Fund Program is now accepting applications for its 2025 cohort. This initiative seeks to support four researchers in exploring current data governance trends and their implications within the African context.

Key Details

Application Deadline: March 11, 2025
Grant Size: $10,000 per researcher
Donor: Mozilla Foundation
Application Link: Apply Here

About the Research Fund

The program aims to foster sustainable and inclusive data-driven economies in Africa by promoting a human rights-centered approach to data governance. Selected researchers will collaborate with the Mozilla 2025 Senior Africa Fellow to conduct in-depth studies and share their findings with key stakeholders across the continent.

Who Should Apply?

Mozilla is seeking researchers who:

Have experience in internet and/or technology policy in Africa.
Are confident writers and analysts, with a background in publishing work such as journals, blogs, opinion pieces, or academic articles.
Can effectively evaluate data governance frameworks and policies within African nations.

Scope of Research

The research projects will focus on assisting African Union (AU) member states in implementing responsive and effective data policies. Applicants can select up to two subregions (East, West, Central, North, or South Africa) and may choose to study up to two countries in one region or four across two regions.

Areas of study may include:

Evaluating existing data governance initiatives and their impact.
Highlighting cross-cutting data justice issues, such as gender equality, labor rights, or climate change.
Exploring policies that promote economic competition, trade, or taxation within regional or continental agreements.

Focus Areas

Applicants should tailor their research proposals to one of the following themes:

Legitimate and Trustworthy Data Systems: Examining best practices for data protection and identifying key institutional actors.
Public Value of Data: Understanding how governments can optimize data models (open, shared, or closed) for national development.
Harmonizing Sector Policies: Analyzing how policies in sectors like health, education, and finance align with AU-DPF (African Union Data Policy Framework) principles.
Optimizing Innovation: Identifying regulatory measures that promote sustainable technological innovation across national and regional levels.

Funding and Support

Each of the four selected researchers will receive a $10,000 grant to facilitate their research and support the dissemination of findings. The research is expected to contribute to policy dialogues, providing actionable insights to African governments and regional bodies.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

Be based in Africa, whether as individuals, networks, or organizations.
Be legally eligible to receive grant funding from the Mozilla Foundation (a U.S. 501(c)(3) non-profit organization).

Selection Criteria

Applications will be reviewed based on:

Geographic focus and relevance.
Experience in the internet, AI, and digital technology sectors in Africa.
Familiarity with national or regional data governance contexts.
Clearly defined methodology, impact objectives, and a well-structured research plan.

Why Apply?

This is a unique opportunity for researchers passionate about data governance, technology policy, and human rights to contribute to Africa’s digital transformation. By participating in this program, you can play a role in shaping equitable and forward-thinking data policies that impact millions.

For more information and to APPLY, CLICK HERE

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