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Developer Initiative

Africa's 100 Rising AI Developers

Identifying 100 rising AI developers across Africa solving real problems. Applications open — Deadline: January 30, 2026.

Apply Free — All 54 Countries Eligible
100 Faces of Africa's AI Future

We Are Looking for You

Africa's 100 Rising AI Developers
Three Participation Categories

Three Pathways, One Vision

We recognise that excellence shows up differently at every stage of the developer journey.

01
The Builders
You have developed an AI solution that is being used. Serving 10 users or 10,000 — it is real, it is live, and it is making an impact. Showcase it and open a path to grant funding.
02
The Ready
You understand AI and ML and work with TensorFlow, PyTorch or scikit-learn. You are a developer in every sense — you just have not built your showcase solution yet. But you are ready.
03
The Rising
You grasp AI concepts and can write Python code. You are learning, experimenting, and building your capabilities. You represent the next wave of African AI talent.
What You Gain

Six Benefits of Participation

Continental Recognition — Your story amplified to thousands across Africa and beyond through SfAI's media network and partner organisations
Path to Funding — Selected Builders with compelling solutions may receive pre-seed grant opportunities through SfAI ecosystem partners
Mentorship & Learning — Mentorship from established AI leaders, access to masterclasses, workshops and a peer learning community
Career Acceleration — Portfolio enhancement, professional endorsements, job connections and fast-track AI leadership programme consideration
Community Belonging — Ongoing collaboration, seasonal reunion events and a platform to mentor other aspiring developers
Amplification Support — Help promoting your solutions, pitch development support, and nomination for grants and recognition programmes
How to Apply

Four Steps to Apply

01
Determine Your Category
Read the three categories and honestly assess which best describes your current stage
02
Gather Your Materials
Prepare your LinkedIn or GitHub profile, code portfolio, project descriptions and impact statements
03
Submit Your Application
Complete the application with detailed responses about your journey, challenges and aspirations
04
Await Selection
Deadline: January 30, 2026. Successful candidates notified from January 20, 2026
Important: Programming Foundation Required

Python or Java programming knowledge is required. All 54 African nations eligible. Completely free to apply.

Apply Now — Free
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