ICFJ Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards 2026: How African Journalists can Apply for $3,000 in Prizes

ICFJ launches 2026 Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards for Africa

Applications are officially open for the 2026 Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards, a prestigious pan-African journalism recognition program presented by the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) in partnership with the Wikimedia Foundation, the organization behind Wikipedia. The awards celebrate African journalists whose work prioritizes accuracy, depth, inclusion, and ethical reporting, while also contributing to the expansion of reliable knowledge on global platforms such as Wikipedia.

With a total prize pool of USD 3,000, the initiative seeks to spotlight impactful journalism that strengthens public access to verified information about Africa’s people, culture, and history.

Why the Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards Matter

The Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards recognize the essential role journalists play in shaping accessible, well-researched public knowledge. Submitted articles serve as credible sources that volunteer editors can reference when creating and improving content on Wikipedia and other Wikimedia projects.

By rewarding journalism that meets the highest standards of integrity, the awards help ensure that African narratives are accurately represented on one of the world’s most visited websites, countering misinformation and underrepresentation.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

To qualify for the 2026 Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Geography: Applicants must be citizens of an African country and primarily reside on the African continent.
Content Relevance: Articles must focus on Africa and relate to one of the official award categories.
Publication Date: Eligible articles must have been published between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2025.
Language: Submissions must be in English or French. French entries must include an English translation.
Accessibility: Articles must be freely accessible online without a paywall.
Original Work: Submissions must be the applicant’s original reporting, featuring in-depth or investigative analysis.

Only one nomination per journalist is allowed.

Award Categories for 2026

The Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards will recognize outstanding reporting in the following categories:

Women and/or Youth
Arts, Culture, Heritage, and Sports

These categories reflect areas where quality journalism can significantly expand public understanding and representation of African experiences.

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Prizes and Benefits for Award Winners

Award recipients will receive both financial rewards and global recognition:

First Place: USD 2,000, certificate of recognition, and an opportunity to attend a Wikimedia Community Conference in 2026
Second Place: USD 1,000 and a certificate of recognition
Special Mention: One additional nominee recognized by ICFJ and the Wikimedia Foundation

All awardees and special mentions will be publicly celebrated across ICFJ and Wikimedia Foundation websites and social media platforms, amplifying their professional visibility.

Important Application Dates

Submissions Open: February 2, 2026 (15:00 UTC)
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026 (23:59 UTC)
Award Announcement: June 16, 2026

Journalists are encouraged to apply early to avoid last-minute submission challenges.

How to Apply for the Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards

Applicants must submit links to their published work along with proof of publication. Submissions should demonstrate accuracy, ethical conduct, and journalistic integrity, aligning with Wikimedia’s commitment to free and reliable knowledge.

Full application details are available on the official Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards webpage.

FAQ

What is the Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards?

The Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards is an initiative by ICFJ and the Wikimedia Foundation that recognizes African journalists whose work supports accurate, ethical, and accessible public knowledge.

Who is eligible for the 2026 Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards?

African journalists who are citizens of an African country, reside on the continent, and published eligible work in 2025 can apply.

What is the prize money for the Open the Knowledge Journalism Awards 2026?

The total prize pool is USD 3,000, with USD 2,000 for first place and USD 1,000 for second place.

What topics qualify for submission?

Eligible topics fall under Women and/or Youth or Arts, Culture, Heritage, and Sports, provided they focus on Africa.

Can paywalled articles be submitted?

Only if the full article is also available elsewhere online without a paywall.

When is the deadline for applications?

Applications close on March 1, 2026, at 23:59 UTC.

How are winners announced?

Award recipients will be announced publicly on June 16, 2026, through official ICFJ and Wikimedia channels.