Applications are now open for the 2026 Kwame Karikari Fact-checking and Open-Source Intelligence (OSINT) Fellowship, a regional programme designed to equip journalists with advanced fact-checking, OSINT, and investigative reporting skills. The Fellowship is presented by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), DUBAWA, and the Digital Technology Artificial Intelligence and Information Disorder Analysis Centre (DAIDAC), an in-depth research, information verification, and fact-checking platform.
The organisers describe the programme as more than just another fellowship, noting that it offers participants a chance to be at the forefront of the fight against information disorder in West Africa. The three-month intensive programme is designed to equip journalists with cutting-edge fact-checking skills, hands-on practice with OSINT tools, and mentorship, empowering them to become “a beacon of truth” in their communities.
Participants will benefit from hands-on training, including a deep dive into fact-checking using OSINT, with expert guidance and mentorship from the DUBAWA and DAIDAC teams. The fellowship also provides an opportunity for real-world impact, as fellows will publish their reports on their own media platforms, as well as on DUBAWA channels, allowing their work to reach a wider audience and contribute meaningfully to the fight against misinformation.
In addition, the programme offers newsroom capacity building through support to establish a fact-checking desk, helping participants strengthen verification systems within their organisations. Fellows will also connect with a regional network of journalists committed to accuracy, fostering collaboration across West Africa.
The fellowship further aims to amplify participants’ voices by encouraging them to promote fact-checking across social media, radio and television, while advancing media literacy and helping audiences discern fact from fiction.
The Fellowship programme is open to full-time journalists from Nigeria, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia, including fact-checkers and investigative journalists seeking to advance their skills. Past fellows with a strong interest in OSINT investigations, exceptional writers with a passion for truth, and individuals committed to active participation in the fellowship are also encouraged to apply.
The call also highlights the importance of newsroom support, encouraging applicants with management buy-in to publish fact-checks to apply. Female journalists, journalists with disabilities, and those with expertise in climate and conflict reporting are strongly encouraged to apply.
Interested applicants are urged not to miss the opportunity to enhance their skills in a crucial area of journalism, make a real impact in combating misinformation, and advance their careers.
Applications close on April 4, 2026. Please visit this link to apply.
