South Africa /Bitcoin Events/The Blockchain Africa Conference 2024 will be held on November 20th at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria (tshwane) and will bring together blockchain developers, influencers, investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from across the globe.
This prestigious event, celebrating its 10th edition and organised by Bitcoin Events, aims to promote collaboration and offer participants invaluable insights into Africa’s rapidly evolving blockchain and cryptocurrency landscape.
The conference will serve as a hub for networking, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. It will feature both local and international experts who will explore major trends shaping the future of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology.
Key Highlights of Blockchain Africa Conference 2024
Engaging Keynote Speakers:
- Charles Hoskinson (Virtual Keynote Speaker) – Founder of Cardano and IOHK. In his “Empowering Africa’s Digital Future” session, Hoskinson will discuss Cardano’s impactful initiatives across Africa over the past six years, with highlights from South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania. Cardano has driven blockchain adoption in these regions through projects focused on digital identity, financial inclusion, and educational improvements. A notable example is Cardano’s collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Education to implement a blockchain system for tracking the academic progress of five million students. Hoskinson will also detail Cardano’s ongoing efforts in South Africa and share plans for furthering blockchain’s positive impact across the continent.
- Ernest Mbenkum – Founder and CEO of Interstellar Inc. His keynote, “Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) and the Africa Currency Marketplace,” will explore how PAPSS is revolutionising cross-border trade in Africa by facilitating transactions in 42 African currencies without using intermediary currencies like the US dollar. By significantly lowering transaction costs, PAPSS could save up to $5 billion annually. Developed in partnership with the African Union, the system has already engaged 115 commercial banks and 15 central banks, boosting economic integration and efficiency.
- Stafford Masie – Former Google Africa CEO and current Discovery Bank board member. In his presentation, “The Power of Bitcoin: Exploring the Ingenious Mechanism of Proof of Work”, Masie will examine how Bitcoin mining in Africa provides unique opportunities for individuals and organisations.
Panel Sessions Featuring Industry Leaders:
- The Role of Crypto Exchanges in Africa and Beyond: This session will feature Chris Maurice (CEO and Co-Founder of Yellow Card), Badi Sudhakaran (Co-Founder and Chief Product Officer of VALR), and Marius Reitz (General Manager for Africa at Luno). Topics will include the role of crypto exchanges, stablecoin adoption, and the transformation of cross-border payments and remittances in Africa.
- Digital Assets: Navigating the Regulatory Landscape in South Africa: Featuring a representative from a South African regulatory body, Anne Njoroge (Chief Legal Officer at BankservAfrica), and Michail Le Roux (Senior Legal Counsel at Hanekom Attorneys Inc.). They will discuss recent developments, such as CASP licences and stablecoin regulations.
- Fireside Chat: “OGs Unplugged – Insights from Crypto and Blockchain Trailblazers, 10 Years Later”: In honour of the conference’s 10th edition, this session will feature pioneers like Elizabeth Rossiello, CEO of AZA Finance, and Ernest Mbenkum, Founder of Interstellar Inc. and the Bantu Blockchain Foundation. They will share reflections on their decade-long journeys, the evolution of Africa’s blockchain industry, and predictions for the future.
- Stablecoins in Africa: Understanding Their Adoption and Impact: Panelists will discuss how stablecoins mitigate currency volatility and facilitate cross-border trade, particularly in the face of foreign exchange shortages affecting 70% of African countries.
Connecting Cape Town’s Vibrant Web3 Community
Following the main event in Pretoria, the conference will continue in Cape Town with a dedicated networking event for the local Web3 community. This exclusive gathering will allow international delegates to connect with Cape Town’s innovative blockchain scene, fostering new collaborations and expanding their understanding of Africa’s thriving tech ecosystem.
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