Full Time
Nairobi, Kenya
Posted 2 weeks ago

The Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF)

Intern – Research Analyst | AECF – Nairobi, Kenya 2025

ESSENTIAL JOB DETAILS

Position: Intern – Research Analyst
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Type of Job: Internship
Application Deadline: 21st March 2025
Industry: Research & Analysis, Development Programs
Employer: Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF)

INTRODUCTION

Are you passionate about research, data analysis, and impact evaluation? Do you want to contribute to meaningful projects that influence investment trends and development programs in Africa? This internship offers an exciting opportunity to work with AECF, a leading development institution that supports innovative enterprises in sub-Saharan Africa.

The Research Analyst Intern will be instrumental in designing, executing, and disseminating research initiatives that inform strategic decision-making and program development. This role provides hands-on experience in market trend analysis, impact investing, and knowledge management. If you are analytical, detail-oriented, and eager to work in an environment that fosters learning and professional growth, this opportunity is for you.

This internship is designed for individuals who are eager to gain hands-on experience in research methodologies, stakeholder engagement, and industry analysis. Interns will be exposed to real-world data collection, economic forecasting, and project assessment strategies. The position also provides a platform for professional networking, where interns can interact with policy experts, development economists, and financial analysts working on sustainable development projects across Africa.

AECF places a strong emphasis on evidence-based decision-making, and this role is crucial in gathering insights that influence the organization’s strategic direction. Interns will not only conduct research but will also contribute to publications, policy briefs, and reports that will be referenced by stakeholders in government, non-profits, and private sector firms. The findings will shape financing strategies, sectoral investments, and innovative solutions in key industries such as agriculture, renewable energy, climate resilience, and financial inclusion.

ABOUT AECF

The Africa Enterprise Challenge Fund (AECF) is a leading development institution that finances early and growth-stage businesses to drive innovation, create employment, and promote sustainable economic development in Africa.

Since 2008, AECF has invested over US$ 300 million in 510+ businesses across sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on sectors such as Agribusiness, Renewable Energy, and Climate-Smart Technologies. Our work has impacted more than 33 million people, created over 35,000 jobs, and attracted over US$ 838 million in additional investments to our portfolio companies.

AECF works with enterprises that demonstrate strong potential for impact, scalability, and financial sustainability. We provide funding and technical support to businesses operating in sectors that address critical social and economic challenges. These include rural agricultural transformation, clean energy expansion, and climate adaptation measures that help smallholder farmers and marginalized communities.

AECF is headquartered in Kenya, with regional offices in Côte d’Ivoire, Tanzania, Nigeria, South Sudan, Benin, and Somalia.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Research and Knowledge Management

Conduct qualitative and quantitative research on investment trends, impact investing, and financing mechanisms aligned with AECF’s thematic areas.
Support the development of research reports, case studies, and briefs to enhance AECF’s knowledge management efforts.
Collect, analyze, and interpret data related to agriculture, renewable energy, and inclusive finance.
Assist in tracking market trends and industry developments to inform AECF’s interventions.
Maintain a repository of research materials to ensure easy access to critical insights for decision-making.
Prepare economic and social impact assessments by analyzing investment flows, economic policies, and industry regulations.
Monitor the financial performance of portfolio companies by evaluating business models, profitability, and sustainability metrics.
Support ongoing research projects on renewable energy financing, SME development, and impact assessment methodologies.

Collaboration and Stakeholder Engagement

Work closely with program teams to integrate research findings into project planning and execution.
Establish and maintain partnerships with research institutions, donors, and stakeholders for knowledge sharing and collaboration.
Represent AECF at workshops, conferences, and industry events to share research findings.
Assist in organizing roundtable discussions, expert panels, and policy dialogues on investment strategies and development finance.

Administrative and Logistical Support

Assist in organizing workshops, training sessions, and conferences by coordinating travel arrangements and venue bookings.
Provide support for AECF-hosted events, managing invitations, registrations, and speaker coordination.
Develop presentation materials and research summaries for internal and external stakeholders.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

Required Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in Economics, Development Studies, Statistics, or a related field.
At least 2 years of experience in research, data analysis, or impact evaluation, preferably in development programs.
Proficiency in data analysis tools such as SPSS, Stata, R, or similar software.
Strong knowledge of development challenges in sub-Saharan Africa.
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to simplify complex data.
Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multi-disciplinary and cross-cultural teams.
Experience in writing policy briefs, technical reports, and data-driven publications.
Understanding of funding mechanisms, private sector investments, and blended finance models.

Core Competencies

Analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Attention to detail and accuracy in data analysis.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
Curiosity and innovation mindset with a willingness to explore emerging trends.

COMPANY CULTURE AND VALUES

At AECF, we foster an environment that promotes:

Innovation and Impact: Encouraging creative problem-solving to address development challenges.
Collaboration and Inclusivity: Working together to support marginalized communities across Africa.
Sustainability and Growth: Driving long-term success for businesses and economies.
Professional Development: Providing a platform for learning and career advancement.
Transparency and Accountability: Ensuring all activities align with high ethical standards.