Applications are open for the SafeTech Africa HackLab 2026, a Youth Social Innovation Challenge for young African innovators, social entrepreneurs and digital rights advocates. The challenge supports technology-driven solutions that make physical, informational and digital spaces safer for women, girls and young people. It was launched at the African Union Innovation Festival 2026 in Addis Ababa under the theme "Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty."
The challenge is organised by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with the Spotlight Initiative Africa Regional Programme, the Global Programme to End Child Marriage, the African Union Women, Gender and Youth Directorate (AU Innovation Lab), UNDP, UNICEF and UN Women.
Key Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Who: Be a young African innovator, social entrepreneur or digital rights advocate.
- Location: Live in Eastern and Southern Africa, or Western and Central Africa.
- Category: Teams must apply under one category only.
Challenge Themes
The challenge has three themes. One of them is technology-facilitated violence against women and girls. The full list of themes is on the official page.
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What Winners Get
- Seed Grants: Four winners receive seed capital of $5,000 to $10,000 each.
- Mentorship: Shortlisted innovators and teams get virtual mentorship using the UNFPA Social Innovation Toolkit.
- Pitch Coaching: Finalists get coaching before pitching live.
- Investor Exposure: Direct access to investors, venture funds and development partners at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit.
Key Dates
- Applications Open: September 29, 2026.
- Applications Close: October 18, 2026, at 11:59 PM CAT.
- Live Pitch and Awards: November 25 to 27, 2026, at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit.
How to Apply
Submit your application online through the official UNFPA SafeTech Africa HackLab page before October 18, 2026.
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and outcomes are not guaranteed.
