Join the Africa Mining Watch Mapathon

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Code for Africa, the Pulitzer Center, and Earth Genome are launching Africa Mining Watch, a groundbreaking tool that uses satellite imagery and AI to detect mining operations across Africa.

To mark this launch, we're inviting 20 journalists from across the continent to participate in an exclusive online mapathon focused on West Africa and the Congo basin on April 22, 2026. The event is free.

The deadline to apply is April 15, 2026.

What You'll Gain from the Mapathon

This isn't just a training session, it's an opportunity to shape the future of environmental journalism in Africa while developing compelling story ideas supported by funding and mentorship.

Learn Cutting-Edge Investigation Tools

• Hands-on training with the Africa Mining Watch platform
• Understand how satellite imagery and machine learning detect mining
• Master data journalism techniques for environmental investigations

Develop Story Ideas with Funding Potential

• Validate mining data in your country or region of expertise
• Conceptualize original investigation ideas using the platform
• Pitch stories that could be selected for future journalism grants through our partners

Receive Expert Mentorship

• One-on-one guidance from Code for Africa's data journalism team
• Learn advanced mapping and AI-assisted reporting techniques
• Join a network of environmental journalists across Africa

Access Exclusive Resources

• Contribute to and receive a curated resource kit on mining in Africa
• Access maps, datasets, and research papers on mining in the Congo Basin
• Connect with the CfA mentors network and organizations like Pulitzer Center

Provide Critical Feedback

• Help refine the Africa Mining Watch prototype
• Shape the tool's features based on journalistic needs
• Ensure the platform serves African newsrooms effectively

Build Cross-Border Investigation Partnerships

• Connect with journalists from other African countries to identify shared mining stories that span borders
• Explore how mining supply chains, environmental damage, and governance failures link across regions
• Lay the groundwork for collaborative, multi-country investigations with peer journalists

Who Should Apply?

We're looking for technologists and journalists who are passionate about using data and technology to investigate environmental issues across Africa. We want to hear from you if you are:

• Based or working in Africa and reporting on environmental, governance, or development issues
• Interested in using data and technology in your investigations
• Focused on or willing to investigate mining, deforestation, or environmental crimes
• Committed to participating in all mapathon sessions

Application deadline: April 15, 2026.

What is Africa Mining Watch?

Built on Earth Index, the proven technology behind Amazon Mining Watch, Africa Mining Watch harnesses the power of satellite data and machine learning to identify and track mining activities in real time. The online tool is designed specifically for journalists, researchers, and civil society to investigate illegal and artisanal mining in sub-Saharan Africa.