Shape the Future of Artificial Intelligence in Cabo Verde

CESO CI Internacional, a recognized consultancy in development and innovation, is recruiting two highly qualified specialists to lead the design and implementation of Cabo Verde's National Artificial Intelligence Strategy and its corresponding Legal Framework. This is a career-defining opportunity to influence national policy and position Cabo Verde as a reference in ethical, inclusive, and sustainable artificial intelligence in Africa.

This project is part of Cabo Verde's digital transformation agenda, supported by the European Union, and aims to create a robust governance ecosystem for AI adoption across public services, private sector innovation, and academic research.

About CESO CI Internacional

CESO CI Internacional has over two decades of experience providing consultancy services in institutional strengthening, public policy design, and socioeconomic development across Portuguese-speaking countries and the broader African continent. With a multidisciplinary team and partnerships with international organizations, the firm delivers high-impact projects that drive structural transformation.

Role Overview

As a Senior Specialist in AI Strategy and Legal Framework, you will report to the Project Director and work closely with government stakeholders, EU technical teams, civil society organizations, and private sector innovators. You will be responsible for producing strategic documents, regulatory drafts, and implementation roadmaps that align with international best practices and Cabo Verde's national development priorities.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the comprehensive diagnosis of Cabo Verde's current AI readiness, including infrastructure assessment, digital literacy levels, and existing technology adoption across key sectors such as tourism, agriculture, health, and education.
Develop the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy document, incorporating pillars for research and development, talent development, data governance, and cross-sector AI deployment.
Draft the Legal Framework for artificial intelligence, ensuring alignment with EU AI Act principles, African Union continental strategies, and UNESCO recommendations on AI ethics.
Conduct multi-stakeholder consultation workshops with government ministries, private sector representatives, academic institutions, and civil society to ensure inclusive and participatory strategy formulation.
Design a monitoring and evaluation framework with clear KPIs, milestones, and governance structures to track strategy implementation over a 5-year horizon.
Benchmark against national AI strategies from countries such as Rwanda, Kenya, Estonia, Portugal, and Singapore to integrate proven approaches adapted to the Cabo Verdean context.
Prepare technical reports, policy briefs, and presentation materials for EU funding bodies and Cabo Verdean government authorities.
Support capacity-building initiatives by designing training modules for public officials on AI governance, data protection, and algorithmic accountability.
Advise on ethical AI principles, including bias mitigation, transparency, explainability, and the protection of fundamental rights in automated decision-making systems.
Collaborate with international experts, EU delegations, and multilateral organizations to ensure knowledge transfer and alignment with global AI governance standards.

Required Qualifications and Experience

Advanced degree (Master's or PhD) in Law, Public Policy, Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, International Relations, or a related field.
Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in at least one of the following areas: technology policy, AI governance, digital regulation, innovation strategy, or legal framework development.
Demonstrated experience working with government institutions, international organizations, or EU-funded projects in Africa or small island developing states.
Solid understanding of global AI regulatory landscapes, including the EU AI Act, OECD AI Principles, and African Union digital transformation frameworks.
Experience in policy drafting, regulatory impact assessment, and multi-stakeholder facilitation.
Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to synthesize complex technical and legal information into actionable policy recommendations.
Fluency in Portuguese is required; proficiency in English is highly desirable. Knowledge of Cape Verdean Creole is an asset.
Experience with project management tools such as MS Project, Asana, or Monday.com, and familiarity with data analysis platforms like Power BI or Tableau.

Desirable Competencies

Background in emerging technology policy, including blockchain, IoT, or cybersecurity governance.
Prior work experience in West Africa or Lusophone African countries.
Publication record in peer-reviewed journals or recognized policy outlets on technology governance topics.
Certifications in AI ethics, data protection (GDPR), or project management (PMP, PRINCE2).

Work Environment and Location

This is a contract-based position with a lead-level scope, based in Praia, Cabo Verde, with occasional travel to other islands of the archipelago and potential missions to Brussels or other European capitals for coordination with EU partners. The working environment is collaborative, intellectually demanding, and deeply engaged with high-level national policy processes.

What We Offer

Competitive compensation package commensurate with seniority and international consultancy standards.
Opportunity to lead a nationally strategic project with visible, long-term impact on Cabo Verde's development trajectory.
Direct engagement with senior government officials, EU representatives, and international AI experts.
Professional development opportunities, including participation in global AI governance forums and specialized training.
A multicultural and purpose-driven work environment committed to innovation and sustainable development.

Career Impact

This role offers a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of AI governance in an emerging African economy. The selected specialists will build a professional network spanning European institutions, African governments, and global technology policy communities. The experience positions future career trajectories toward senior advisory roles in international organizations, regulatory bodies, or global technology policy think tanks.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should send their CV, a cover letter detailing relevant experience, and at least two professional references to c.henriques@ceso.pt with the subject line "AI Strategy Specialist Application – Cabo Verde". Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial interview.

CESO CI Internacional is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in its team composition.