Young Africans compete for AI-driven family planning solutions in West
The third Africa Young Innovators for Health Award has launched, inviting applications for artificial intelligence-driven solutions that expand family planning access in West and Central Africa. The initiative, led by Speak Up Africa and the Ouagadougou Partnership Coordination Unit (OPCU), seeks proposals from young Africans aged 18 to 35. Their submissions must address gaps in contraceptive care, combat misinformation, and overcome service delivery obstacles in the region.
Submissions will be accepted until 6 November 2026 at 23:59 GMT. The competition highlights a pressing regional issue: 80% of unintended pregnancies among adolescents aged 15–19 occur among those not using modern contraception, according to the report. The Ouagadougou Partnership’s goal is to help 13 million people access contraceptive methods by 2030, but achieving this requires better information, service delivery improvements, and youth-centered care. AI has the potential to support healthcare providers, streamline patient referrals, and enable data-driven planning for services.
However, the award emphasizes solutions tailored to African contexts, particularly in areas with limited connectivity. Proposals must prioritize data protection, safety, inclusion, and human oversight while integrating AI in meaningful ways. Applicants should have developed their ideas to at least the prototype or minimum viable product stage.
To apply, individuals must submit their proposals through a civil society or private-sector organization. Eight finalists will be selected to participate in a hackathon in Conakry, Guinea, scheduled for 1–3 December 2026. During this event, they will refine their business models, map key stakeholders, and pitch to investors. Training and mentorship sessions will run from 30 November to 3 December, covering pitch development, storytelling techniques, and technical guidance.
The jury will award four winners: two first-place recipients will each receive $15,000, while two second-place winners will each get $10,000. All winners will gain access to a three-month mentorship program, expert networking opportunities in family planning and AI, and media training to present their work to partners.
This award provides young innovators with both financial support and a platform to tackle a critical regional challenge. By focusing on practical constraints, such as offline capabilities and bias mitigation, the competition ensures solutions remain viable for communities where connectivity and trust in healthcare systems are often limited.
Applications remain open until 6 November 2026. Interested applicants must submit their proposals through the official submission form.
