Community Data Stewards Cohort 2026 Now Accepting Applications

Applications are open for data stewards who will improve metadata quality, taxonomy support, and dataset discoverability across Africa's open data ecosystem.

The Community Data Stewards program is one of Datum Africa's most impactful programs — not because of what we build, but because of what participants build for others. Data stewards take on the essential work of improving the quality, discoverability, and documentation of datasets that would otherwise remain underused.

The 2026 cohort runs for 8 weeks, fully remote. It is designed for data practitioners at all experience levels — researchers, librarians, civic technologists, and anyone with a commitment to open data quality. You do not need advanced technical skills to apply. You need curiosity, care, and a willingness to contribute.

What participants do: Each steward is assigned a set of datasets drawn from Datum Africa's community contributions. Working with editorial guides and weekly mentorship from Datum Africa staff, they improve metadata completeness, correct taxonomic errors, add contextual documentation, and flag issues for platform review. Every contribution is traceable and credited.

What participants gain: Structured onboarding to open data quality standards. Weekly group sessions with peers from across the continent. A verified contribution record upon completion. And, for many, lasting relationships with other African data practitioners working on similar challenges.

The 2025 cohort improved discoverability scores for 240+ datasets and published three openly licensed metadata guides that are now used by organizations across East and West Africa.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. We strongly encourage applications from practitioners in underrepresented regions and from those working in languages other than English. Visit our contact page to express your interest.