SafeTech Africa HackLab: Innovating Safe Spaces — Call for Applications

About this opportunity

SafeTech Africa HackLab — launched at InnoFest '26 — is calling for applications from young innovators and youth-led teams across Africa who want to design, build and scale technology-driven solutions to harmful practices. The call targets original, practical innovations that address technology-facilitated violence, gender-based violence, child marriage, and other structural inequalities. Over 60% of Africa's population are young people, yet adolescent girls and young women and other marginalized groups face severe structural inequalities — the HackLab aims to equip local youth leadership to challenge these power imbalances directly through a strategy of Decentralised Power and Systemic Shifting. How it works: • Call for Applications open until 18 October 2026. • Shortlisted innovators/teams receive virtual mentorship using the UNFPA Social Innovation Toolkit. • Final pitch event: live showcase and award ceremony at the YouthConnekt Africa Summit (November 2026). • Focal contacts: Esther Tshimanga (etshimanga@gmail.com) and Sinothando Manala (manala@unfpa.org), plus Bernadette Ssebadduka. No prior experience required — the programme is designed for youth-led original ideas, not polished products.

Format: hybrid

Who can apply

• Young innovators and youth-led teams across Africa
• Original, practical, youth-led innovative ideas
• Solutions targeting harmful practices: tech-facilitated violence, GBV, child marriage
• No prior company or product required — ideas at concept or prototype stage welcome
• Must submit application by 18 October 2026

What you get

• Virtual mentorship via the UNFPA Social Innovation Toolkit
• Access to a youth-led innovation network across Africa
• Live pitch showcase and award ceremony at YouthConnekt Africa Summit (Nov 2026)
• Direct support to tackle harmful practices with technology
• Opportunity to scale an original idea with institutional backing

How to apply

1. 1
   Review eligibility

   Check that you meet all criteria before starting your application.

2. 2
   Prepare documents

   Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, and any required essays or statements.

3. 3
   Submit application

   Apply directly through the official link below. Deadline: 18 October 2026.