African Futures Lab Communication Lead Job 2026: Remote Communications Leadership Opportunity in Africa and Europe @Unknown

The African Futures Lab (AfaLab) is hiring a Communication Lead to lead the implementation of its communications strategy and strengthen the organisation’s visibility, advocacy, and public engagement across Africa and Europe.

This remote opportunity is open to professionals based in Africa and Europe who have strong experience in strategic communications, digital storytelling, advocacy campaigns, media engagement, and communicating research to diverse audiences.

The successful candidate will play a central role in shaping how AfaLab’s work on racial justice, reparations, gender rights, climate justice, and socio-economic inequalities is communicated to communities, policymakers, partners, and global audiences.

The position is offered as a full-time 18-month contract with the possibility of extension.

Application Deadline: 15 August 2026
(Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis)

About African Futures Lab

Founded by two Black women following the global Black Lives Matter protests of 2020, the African Futures Lab (AfaLab) works to advance racial justice and reparatory justice for Africans and Afro-descended people worldwide.

The organisation combines research, advocacy, knowledge exchange, and partnerships to challenge the lasting impacts of colonialism and slavery while supporting movements seeking accountability and justice.

AfaLab works across Africa and Europe, collaborating with activists, policymakers, researchers, and civil society organisations to promote evidence-based conversations around racial justice.

Current areas of focus include:

• Racial justice
• Reparations
• Gender rights
• Climate justice
• Socio-economic inequalities
• Policy advocacy

As the African Union Decade of Reparations (2026–2036) begins, AfaLab is expanding its efforts to strengthen advocacy, support evidence-based dialogue, and contribute to global conversations on reparatory justice.

About the Communication Lead Role

The Communication Lead will be responsible for bringing AfaLab’s new communications strategy to life.

The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on communication delivery, requiring someone who can develop compelling narratives, manage digital platforms, create impactful content, and support advocacy goals.

Working closely with the Executive Director, programme teams, and external partners, the Communication Lead will ensure that AfaLab’s research, campaigns, publications, and partnerships reach the right audiences.

The successful candidate will help strengthen the organisation’s profile, influence public discussions, and communicate complex ideas in accessible and engaging ways.

Key Responsibilities

The Communication Lead will oversee several areas, including communications strategy, content creation, digital engagement, and media relations.

Communications Planning and Strategy

Responsibilities include:

• Leading implementation of AfaLab’s communications strategy
• Developing annual and quarterly communications plans
• Creating and managing editorial calendars
• Managing website, newsletter, LinkedIn, and Instagram communications
• Maintaining organisational messaging and narratives
• Supporting programme teams with strategic communication advice
• Developing communication performance indicators
• Preparing communication reports and recommendations
• Monitoring media trends and opportunities

The role will ensure communications are integrated into advocacy campaigns, research projects, events, and organisational priorities.

Content Creation and Digital Communications

The Communication Lead will create high-quality written and visual content across multiple platforms.

Key responsibilities include:

• Producing website, newsletter, LinkedIn, and Instagram content
• Developing storytelling campaigns
• Creating advocacy communication materials
• Supporting publication launches and events
• Maintaining AfaLab’s visual identity
• Developing engaging digital campaigns
• Exploring innovative communication tools and approaches

The candidate will translate complex research and policy issues into clear, accessible content for different audiences.

Media Engagement and Partnerships

The role will also involve strengthening AfaLab’s media presence and external partnerships.

Responsibilities include:

• Building relationships with journalists and media organisations
• Developing press releases and media briefings
• Creating key messages for public engagement
• Maintaining media and stakeholder databases
• Identifying media opportunities
• Supporting communication around events and announcements
• Building partnerships with advocacy organisations

Research and Analytical Communication

The Communication Lead will analyse research findings and programme outputs to create impactful communication strategies.

This includes:

• Reviewing research reports
• Translating technical information into accessible messages
• Using audience insights to improve communication approaches
• Measuring communication impact through analytics

Required Qualifications and Experience

Applicants should have:

• A master’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience
• At least five years of professional communications experience
• Experience developing and implementing communications strategies
• Experience managing integrated communication campaigns
• Experience communicating research, policy, or advocacy issues
• Experience working with civil society organisations, think tanks, international organisations, or philanthropic organisations is an advantage

Technical Skills Required

Candidates should demonstrate strong skills in:

• Strategic communications
• Writing and editing
• Digital storytelling
• Visual communication
• Advocacy communications
• Social media management
• Website management
• Newsletter development
• Communication analytics

Applicants should also have experience using:

• Canva
• Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator
• Microsoft Office tools
• Video editing tools

Language Requirements

Applicants must have:

• Excellent written and spoken English skills
• Ability to independently create and edit communications materials in French at a professional level

Knowledge of additional languages is an advantage.

Ideal Candidate Profile

AfaLab is seeking someone who:

• Thrives in a small and dynamic team
• Can manage multiple priorities effectively
• Has strong attention to detail
• Works independently and takes initiative
• Demonstrates creativity and strategic thinking
• Values justice, integrity, creativity, reliability, and optimism
• Is passionate about racial justice and social change

The organisation particularly encourages women to apply.

Position Details

Job Title: Communication Lead
Organisation: African Futures Lab (AfaLab)
Location: Remote within Africa and Europe
Contract Type: Full-time
Duration: 18 months, with possibility of extension
Start Date: As soon as possible

The successful candidate should be available for occasional travel and periodic in-person team meetings.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application before:

15 August 2026

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so early submission is encouraged.

Candidates interested in using communication to advance racial justice, advocacy, and social change are encouraged to apply.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) shares jobs, fellowships, scholarships, grants, and professional opportunities for informational purposes only. GSO is not affiliated with African Futures Lab (AfaLab) and does not participate in recruitment, selection, or hiring decisions. Applicants should verify all vacancy details, requirements, and application procedures through the official organisation before applying.

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