Software Engineer / Software Developer Team (Frontend & Backend Developers)

What if you could be part of making Africa great and change things for future generations.OpenGov Africa is a civic-tech STEM startup using open source technology, data, and community-driven innovation to reimagine governance, strengthen transparency, and empower citizen participation across Africa.

We work with citizens, policymakers, researchers, and technologists to foster open governance models that empower communities, reduce corruption, and create equitable development opportunities.

We are seeking Tech Volunteers (Frontend & Backend Developers) to design, develop, and maintain OpenGov Africa’s digital platforms. Our tech infrastructure powers community engagement, project transparency, and open governance resources. As a Tech Volunteer, you will design, develop, and maintain open-source digital tools that improve governance transparency and citizen engagement.

This role is ideal for developers passionate about civic tech, open source, and building solutions that drive accountability across Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Platform Development: Build and maintain OpenGov Africa’s website, community platforms, and dashboards.
  • Frontend Development: Build user-friendly, accessible interfaces for web applications and platforms.
• Backend Development: Develop and maintain scalable backend systems to power open governance tools.
• Integration & APIs: Create and manage APIs for data sharing and collaboration.
• Open Source Contributions: Contribute to open source repositories for transparency in projects.
• Accessibility & Inclusivity: Ensure platforms are inclusive and accessible to all communities.
• Team Collaboration: Work with product managers, designers, and data scientists to ensure smooth integration and user-friendly design.
• Tech Support: Provide technical support for digital events and community engagement.
• Security: Implement best practices for secure and reliable systems.

Qualifications

• Experience in frontend (React, Vue, HTML/CSS/JS) or backend development (Python, Node.js, Django, etc.).
• Familiarity with databases (PostgreSQL, MySQL, MongoDB).
• Familiarity with GitHub and collaborative open source workflows.
• Knowledge of web accessibility standards (WCAG) is a plus.
• Strong problem-solving and technical skills.
• Ability to work remotely and communicate clearly with non-technical team members.
• Passion for civic tech, open data, or social innovation.

Expected Requirements

• Time Commitment: Approx. 5-8 hours per week (flexible, remote).
• Commitment Period: Minimum 6 months.
• Remote Work: Must have reliable internet access.

What We Offer

• Real Impact: Build tools that improve transparency and citizen participation in governance.
• Skill Development: Gain experience in civic tech, open-source development, and collaborative product building.
• Networking: Work with a global community of developers, data scientists, and civic innovators.
• Recognition: Certificate of Contribution and recommendation letter (upon request).
• Growth opportunity: Find out how contributors can become leaders at OpenGov Africa - ( https://github.com/OpenGovAfrica/.github/blob/main/governance.md)

Why Join OpenGov Africa?

This is an opportunity to contribute your technical skills to solutions that tackle governance challenges and promote transparency.

How to Apply

If you are passionate about tech for good, apply here: ( https://forms.gle/63BwMW3r7MxuJGYE6).

Private Group Details:

• Group Size Range: 1 - 50+
• Event can be held virtually
• No Donation