Global investment in blockchain is skyrocketing, with spending expected to hit nearly $17.9 billion in 2024. Several African women in crypto are at the forefront of this technological evolution, using blockchain to solve critical challenges and empower their communities. Their stories are inspiring and pivotal to understanding how Africa is leveraging blockchain for economic and social growth.
1. Alakanani Itireleng (Botswana)
Known as “The Bitcoin Lady,” Alakanani Itireleng is a pioneer in Botswana’s blockchain landscape. Her cryptocurrency journey began with tragedy. In 2012, Alakanani turned to Bitcoin while trying to raise funds for her ill son. Despite his passing, this heartbreaking experience sparked her deep dive into cryptocurrency. A year later, she founded Satoshicentre, a collaborative hub for blockchain developers to create solutions to Africa’s pressing challenges.
Satoshicentre has since grown into a powerful incubator for blockchain innovation. Alakanani’s mission is clear: “Education is key to adoption. People can’t adopt what they don’t know.” Through education and mentorship, she aims to position Botswana, and by extension Africa, as a leading player in the global blockchain industry. Her story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the power of technology to drive real change.
2. Karla Obakpolor (Nigeria)
Karla Obakpolor’s journey into blockchain started in 2016. As the founder of cryptosmartnow.io and QLIP NFT, Karla has immersed herself in the crypto world, studying various blockchain platforms including Algorand, Ethereum, and Bitcoin. Her passion led her to become an Algorand ambassador in 2019, where she mentored over 300 people in blockchain fundamentals.
Karla is not just a tech enthusiast; she is an educator, an innovator, and a visionary. She created the BITSAVE platform, to help people combat inflation through crypto savings. Karla continues to push boundaries as she works on her book, which aims to demystify cryptocurrency fundamentals and offer practical solutions to everyday problems using blockchain.
3. Michelle Nsunsumuco (Zambia)
Michelle Nsunsumuco is a trailblazer in the blockchain space, having entered the ecosystem as early as 2009. As the founder and CEO of Global Policy House, Michelle advises governments, including Bermuda, and global organizations on blockchain, AI, and other emerging technologies.
Michelle’s work spans across continents, collaborating with institutions like the United Nations and the World Bank. Her focus is on the socio-economic potential of blockchain and how it can empower women and businesses. Michelle is a relentless advocate for using technology to solve Africa’s most pressing issues, especially in areas like female empowerment and business growth.
4. Roselyn Mwangi (Kenya)
As co-founder and director of Azuri Blockchain Consultants Ltd, Roselyn Mwangi has significantly contributed to Africa’s blockchain adoption. Her journey includes leadership roles like Chairperson of the Blockchain Association of Kenya and spearheading the Kenyan Women in Blockchain Chapter.
Roselyn’s background spans over a decade working with the United Nations and Safaricom, making her a well-rounded expert in blockchain and emerging technologies. She is passionate about positioning African youth as active contributors to the global digital economy. Roselyn’s dedication to technology-driven solutions is inspiring, as she works to support startups and empower tech innovators in East Africa.
5. Yale Soko (South Africa)
South Africa’s Yale Soko is the Ecosystems Lead at cLabs, Chairwoman of the United Africa Blockchain Association, and founder of Essence Crypto Consultants. Her blockchain journey began in 2016, leading her to become a prominent figure in Africa’s cryptocurrency ecosystem.
Yale’s mission is clear: to educate and equip Africans with the knowledge needed to harness the potential of blockchain. Through workshops, YouTube tutorials, and learner guides, she is committed to driving financial inclusion and creating opportunities for Africans in the digital space. Yale’s work exemplifies the power of education in breaking down barriers to technology adoption and fostering innovation.
The Future of Blockchain in Africa is Female
These African women in crypto are not just blockchain enthusiasts; but change-makers using technology to address real-world problems. From education to financial inclusion, their efforts are helping shape Africa’s future in the digital economy. As blockchain evolves, it’s women like Alakanani, Karla, Michelle, Roselyn, and Yale who are ensuring that Africa isn’t left behind. Their contributions prove that the future of blockchain is not just digital—it’s also inclusive, diverse, and full of opportunity.
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