Africa is undergoing a digital transformation but progress is being slowed by a persistent gap between policy formulation and implementation.

To unlock the full potential of technologies like AI, digital public infrastructure and cybersecurity, the continent needs policies that are not only well-designed but also effectively executed.

That’s why the the Distributed IoT-Platforms, Privacy and Edge-Intelligence Research-(DIPPER Lab) is partnering with the Africa Center for Digital Transformation [ACDT] and the Internet Society Ghana Chapter as part of a joint initiative under the FDC Summit to implement the Policy Action Lab (PAL), a four (4) -month virtual fellowship aimed at equipping African changemakers with the tools to drive practical, impactful digital policy reforms.

Launching officially at the FDC Africa Summit in Accra on 27th November 2025, PAL will bring together 25 fellows from across Africa to collaborate on real-world policy challenges.

By fostering a pan-African ecosystem of research, collaboration and innovation, PAL aims to strengthen governance, support financial and developmental prosperity, and elevate Africa’s leadership in the global digital policy space.

Applications are open until 30th September 2025, a unique opportunity to turn policy ideas into action and shape the future of digital governance on the continent.