As cryptocurrency gains momentum across Africa, the continent has witnessed significant developments in 2023. Explore the standout initiatives and crypto-related progress made by African nations during the year.
South Africa’s Regulatory Strides and Business Adoption
Good news, everyone! CryptoQR is now active at all Pick-n-Pay stores across South Africa, including PnP express and clothing shops! You can also buy Airtime and Electricity, Plane and Bus tickets, and pay your municipal bills with #Bitcoin at the till! pic.twitter.com/3hVhgIJdTb
— CryptoQR 🇿🇦⚡️ (@CryptoConverted) February 1, 2023
South Africa has emerged as a leader in cryptocurrency regulation, implementing measures since 2018. The Advertising Regulatory Board introduced a clause to protect consumers, and financial authorities mandated crypto exchanges to obtain licenses by the end of 2023. Major retailer Pick n Pay now accepts Bitcoin across its 1,628 stores.
Nigeria’s Resilient Crypto Adoption Despite Challenges
Nigeria, with a 40% internet penetration rate and a government ban on crypto dealings, stands as a global leader in crypto adoption. Despite challenges, the Central Bank of Nigeria lifted restrictions on banks for crypto transactions, and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) initiated licensing for crypto exchanges. The Finance Act of 2023 introduced a 10% tax on digital asset gains.
Kenya’s Push for Crypto Regulation and Industry Hub
Kenya will now tax
– crypto
– monetised online content pic.twitter.com/1mlJ5dXt83— Mpumelelo Ndiweni (@mpumiglobal) May 4, 2023
Kenya is making strides in cryptocurrency adoption, considering a 3% tax on crypto transfers and a 15% tax on online content. A partnership with the Venom Foundation aims to launch a blockchain and Web3 hub. The Blockchain Association of Kenya is actively involved in drafting the country’s first virtual asset service provider’s bill.
Central African Republic’s Innovation in Crypto Regulation
The Central African Republic (CAR) demonstrated innovation by briefly adopting Bitcoin as a legal tender in 2022. In 2023, a committee was formed to draft a bill on cryptocurrency use. The CAR extended its Sango blockchain project to tokenize land and natural resources, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to crypto regulation.
Ghana’s Crypto Potential and Regulatory Considerations
Ghana has quietly become a significant player in the crypto space, embracing digital assets with minimal regulatory hurdles. Chainalysis suggests Ghana has the potential for crypto adoption levels comparable to Kenya and Nigeria. The Ghanaian securities regulator established a task force to enhance its capacity to regulate crypto assets.
Looking Ahead to 2024: Africa’s Continued Crypto Evolution
As Africa’s interest and contributions to the cryptocurrency space rapidly evolve, 2024 holds the promise of even more significant developments. Stay tuned as African nations shape the future of crypto on the continent.
The year 2023 showcased Africa’s commitment to embracing and regulating cryptocurrencies. From South Africa’s regulatory advancements to Nigeria’s resilient adoption, Kenya’s push for regulation, CAR’s innovative projects, and Ghana’s emerging crypto potential, African nations are making their mark on the global crypto landscape.
