Investigative journalism remains one of the most powerful tools for promoting accountability, exposing corruption, combating disinformation, and strengthening democratic governance. However, women continue to be underrepresented in investigative and accountability journalism across many African countries, including Ghana.

To bridge this gap and empower the next generation of female investigative journalists, the Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), with support from the European Union through International Media Support, has announced the 2026 Investigative Journalism Mentorship Programme for Women in Ghana.

This fully funded 12-month hybrid mentorship programme is designed to equip young Ghanaian women with practical investigative journalism skills, newsroom exposure, professional mentorship, and editorial support to become strong voices in accountability journalism.

The initiative forms part of the African Media Integrity and Resilience Programme being implemented by the MFWA.

About the Investigative Journalism Mentorship Programme

The programme is targeted at female journalism graduates, early-career journalists, and young professionals who are passionate about governance reporting, investigative journalism, ethical media practice, and countering disinformation.

Selected participants will undergo a structured mentorship experience that combines residential training, virtual coaching, and newsroom attachment opportunities.

The programme aims to nurture women journalists who can contribute meaningfully to public accountability, transparency, and democratic development in Ghana.

Structure of the Programme

The mentorship programme will run from July 2026 to June 2027 and will follow a hybrid format.

1. Two Months Residential Training

Participants will begin with an intensive two-month in-person residential training programme.

Accommodation will be fully provided at a designated training location.

During this phase, fellows will receive hands-on training in:

Investigative journalism techniques
Governance and policy reporting
Leadership development
Mobile journalism
Fact-checking and verification
Multimedia storytelling
Digital content production
Women’s safety in journalism
Ethical and accountability reporting

2. Ten Months Virtual Mentorship

Following the residential component, participants will continue with ten months of virtual mentorship and professional coaching.

This stage will connect fellows with experienced female editors, investigative journalists, and governance experts who will guide participants throughout the programme.

The mentorship phase is designed to help fellows:

Strengthen investigative reporting skills
Develop editorial judgment
Build professional confidence
Improve storytelling techniques
Navigate challenges in journalism careers
Expand professional networks

3. Six-Month Newsroom Attachment

Within the mentorship period, participants will also complete a six-month newsroom attachment with The Fourth Estate, the investigative journalism project of the MFWA.

This practical newsroom experience will expose fellows to real investigative reporting projects and editorial processes.

Benefits of the Programme

Successful applicants will enjoy several professional and financial benefits throughout the mentorship programme.

Key Benefits Include:

Intensive investigative journalism training
Professional mentorship from experienced female editors
Coaching from governance experts
Financial support for investigative story production
Editorial support for published stories
Opportunity to produce at least five investigative stories
Six-month newsroom attachment with The Fourth Estate
Monthly stipend
Certificate of honour upon successful completion
Expanded professional journalism network
Enhanced digital and multimedia storytelling skills

Who Can Apply?

The programme is open to:

Female Ghanaian journalism graduates
Early-career journalists
Young professionals passionate about accountability journalism

Applicants must also be willing to fully participate in the programme from July 2026 to June 2027.

The organisers particularly encourage applications from candidates residing in:

Greater Accra Region
Eastern Region
Central Region
Ashanti Region
Bono East Region
Savannah Region
Northern Region
Upper West Region

Required Application Documents

Interested applicants must submit the following documents:

A motivation letter (maximum 300 words) explaining why they should be considered for the programme
Links to two published works:
- News articles for journalists
- Blog posts for other professionals
Letter of consent from employer (required for staff journalists)
Updated CV with two referees

How to Apply

Applicants should send all required documents via email to:

applications@mfwa.org

Email Subject Line:

“Application for Female IJ Mentorship”

Applicants are encouraged to carefully review all requirements before submission to ensure their applications are complete.

Application Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Media Foundation for West Africa Investigative Journalism Mentorship Programme for Women is:

May 27, 2026

Late applications may not be considered, so interested candidates are encouraged to apply early.

Why This Programme Matters

The underrepresentation of women in investigative journalism continues to limit diversity in newsrooms and public discourse. Programmes such as this mentorship initiative are critical in creating opportunities for women to build successful careers in investigative reporting and governance journalism.

By equipping young women with investigative skills, mentorship, and newsroom experience, the programme contributes to stronger media accountability systems and more inclusive journalism in Ghana.

This opportunity is particularly valuable for aspiring investigative journalists seeking practical exposure, professional guidance, and long-term career development in media and governance reporting.

For enquiries, applicants may contact Josephine Badu-Nyarko via: