Communities face challenges such as corruption, electoral irregularities, and governance that can hinder the path to progress. Unfortunately, these problems can go unnoticed or unaddressed due to limited access to information and traditional media outlets overlooking local concerns.
To bridge this gap and amplify the voices of the people, there is a pressing need to train citizens in using open source platforms. In light of this, an international coalition of human rights defending organisations, in partnership with Code for Africa will train citizen watchdogs to use open source tools, such as the Charter tool, to amplify local voices and help to keep governments accountable.
The training will be done through a 2-day virtual story sprint from 9 - 10 November 2023.
Participants will get access to a catalogue of existing open source software solutions and data, as well as support from media and technical experts for teams to use the Charter tool to tell compelling stories.
The participants will be put in teams to use data and documents on democracy, elections and governance in Africa to create engagement and impact in communities. The teams will present their story ideas to the audience during the event. Judges will deliberate and announce the winning team. Members of the winning team will then receive the opportunity to produce individual stories offline keeping to the allocated deadline. Once stories have been received and judges have convened on the best story, the top 3 winners will be announced.
The best idea will win a $700, 1 month mentorship as well as an opportunity to have their story featured in the Charter platform. The 1st runner up will receive $500, 1 month mentorship.
All participants will receive training on:
(1) The power of citizen journalism in promoting change
(2) Open source reporting tools and platforms
(3) How to tell compelling and contextually rich stories
(4) Ethical considerations and responsible reporting
(5) Identifying key issues in democracy, elections and governance
(6) Strategies for encouraging community engagement
(7) Using the Charter platform to tell stories
Are You Eligible?
The Story sprint is open to all civic watchdogs who want to upskill and support democracy and empower citizens.
We are therefore seeking candidates with:
A passion for creative problem-solving and using light-touch appropriate technologies that will work reliably with minimal intervention in challenging environments.
A demonstrable track-record of amplifying citizen voices in your local area or professional field
An understanding of the challenges facing communities such as corruption, electoral irregularities, and governance that affect democracy
An understanding of open source tools and a willingness to learn about the Charter tool
A commitment to learning and sharing insights, both within the Charter Project ecosystem and the wider global civic technology movement.
A commitment to open knowledge principles, including adhering to open source and open data principles (and documentation), with an understanding of global best-practices for ethical data/technology use
Fully conversant in the dominant international language for their region (English).
Applicants associated with intelligence or security agencies, paramilitary organisations, state-affiliated propaganda or media agencies or organisations prescribed by the UN or AU or EU are not eligible for these fellowships.
To apply, complete this form by 5 November 2023.