Volunteer Internships

Call for Applications: Volunteer Internships to Advance Peace and Security in the Horn of Africa

Internship Opportunities – Remote / Part-Time

Duration: 6 months

Start Date: 1 September 2025

Background

The Horn of Africa Institute for Peace and Security (HOAIPS) is non-profit institute dedicated to advancing peace, security, and stability in the Horn of Africa through research, dialogue, training, and innovative digital platforms.

Our work spans peacebuilding, conflict transformation, capacity development, policy research, and innovative technological solutions. We collaborate closely with governments, UN agencies, civil society, and academic institutions throughout the Horn of Africa.

Our key initiatives include professional online training certification, PeaceTalks+, Peace Briefs, the Horn Peace Intelligence AI platform, and the Horn Peace and Security Network (HPSN).

At present, the Institute operates without direct funding for these initiatives. To sustain and grow this crucial work, we engage and mobilize professionals and committed volunteers from the region who are passionate about contributing their skills, time, and expertise to the cause of peace. These internships offer a platform to make a tangible difference while building professional experience in peacebuilding, research, and technology.

1. PeaceTalks+ Coordination Intern (2 positions)

Coordinate the planning, scheduling, and delivery of weekly PeaceTalks+ webinars.

Responsibilities:

• Plan and schedule webinar sessions
• Coordinate with moderators, panellists, and technical teams
• Prepare session briefs and promotional materials
• Manage online event logistics and follow-up reports

Qualifications:

• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Experience with event coordination or webinars an asset
• Passion for peace and security in the Horn of Africa

2. Peace Briefs Coordination Intern (2 positions)

Support the production of concise, timely, and well-researched peace and security briefs.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate with researchers and editors
• Collect and verify data for briefs
• Ensure timely publication and distribution
• Maintain a digital archive of published briefs

Qualifications:

• Strong research and writing skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Interest in conflict analysis and peacebuilding

3. Peace AI Intelligence Data Analysis & Research Intern(1 position)

Support data collection, verification, analysis, and reporting to enhance the Peace AI platform.

Responsibilities:

• Integrate and clean data from multiple sources
• Manage cloud services and video conferencing support
• Document processes and conduct quality checks
• Produce weekly incident reports and trend analysis
• Collaborate with ICT and AI teams

Qualifications:

• Interest or background in data science, statistics, or computer science
• Understanding of data quality assurance
• Passion for conflict analysis and peacebuilding

4. ICT & AI Development Intern(1 position)

Assist in developing and maintaining digital platforms including Peace AI, the HOAIPS website, and HornConnect.

Responsibilities:

• Website and platform development & maintenance
• Support AI system deployment and improvements
• Ensure platform security and user accessibility
• Assist with AI workflow documentation

Qualifications:

• Background in computer science or software development
• Web development experience (front-end and back-end)
• Familiarity with AI/ML and cloud platforms a plus

5. Horn Peace and Security Network (HPSN) Community Engagement & Communications Intern (2 positions)

Support network growth, member engagement, communications, and event organization.

Responsibilities:

• Recruit and onboard new members
• Moderate online discussions and forums
• Organize virtual and in-person events
• Manage social media, newsletters, and reports
• Coordinate with working groups and produce monthly peace and security updates

Qualifications:

• Experience or interest in community management or communications
• Strong interpersonal and digital skills
• Passion for regional peacebuilding and cooperation

What We Offer:

• Practical experience working with regional and international peacebuilding actors.
• Access to HOAIPS’s resources, training, and mentorship.
• A certificate of completion to support your professional growth.
• Networking opportunities across the Horn of Africa peace and security community.
• Coverage for communication expenses related to your internship activities.