Blockchain Africa Conference 2024 is set to unite blockchain developers, influencers, investors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders from around the world at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria (Tshwane) on 20 November 2024.
This premier event, marking the 10th edition and organized by Bitcoin Events, will foster collaboration and provide participants with insights into Africa’s dynamic and rapidly evolving blockchain and cryptocurrency ecosystem.
The conference offers a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and collaboration, bringing together local and international experts to discuss the most significant trends in 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 session titled “Empowering Africa’s Digital Future,” Hoskinson will share Cardano’s initiatives in Africa, focusing on their traction over the last six years in South Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania, amongst others. Cardano has been instrumental in driving blockchain adoption in these regions through partnerships and projects aimed at improving digital identity, financial inclusion, and education systems. Notably, in Ethiopia, Cardano collaborated with the Ministry of Education to implement a blockchain-based system to track the educational progress of 5 million students. In South Africa, Cardano continues to engage with local developers and stakeholders to support blockchain education and develop sustainable solutions for economic
growth. Hoskinson will outline these efforts and discuss future plans for expanding 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 delve into how PAPSS is transforming cross-border trade in Africa. By facilitating transactions across 42 African currencies without relying on intermediary currencies like the U.S. dollar, PAPSS significantly reduces transaction costs, potentially saving up to $5 billion annually. Developed in partnership with the African Union, the system already includes 115 commercial banks and 15 central banks, enhancing economic integration and streamlining payments across the continent.
• Stafford Masie, Ex-CEO of Google Africa and current board member at Discovery Bank, will present on “The Power of Bitcoin: Exploring the Ingenious Mechanism of Proof of Work”. His keynote will highlight how Bitcoin mining in Africa offers unique opportunities for both individuals and organizations.
Panel Sessions Featuring Industry Giants:
• The Role of Crypto Exchanges in Africa and Beyond: Featuring 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). This session will delve into the role of crypto exchanges, the adoption of stablecoins, and how they are transforming cross-border payments and remittances in Africa.
• Digital Assets: Navigating the Regulatory Landscape in South Africa: This panel will include a representative from one of South Africa’s regulatory bodies, Anne Njoroge (Chief Legal Officer at BankservAfrica) and Michail Le Roux (Senior Legal Counsel at Hanekom Attorneys Inc.) who will discuss recent developments like the issuance of CASP licenses and regulatory clarity for stablecoins in South Africa.
Fireside Chat: “OGs Unplugged – Insights from Crypto and Blockchain Trailblazers, 10 Years Later”: In celebration of the 10th edition of the Blockchain Africa Conference, this special fireside chat, will feature early pioneers like Elizabeth Rossiello, CEO of AZA Finance, and Ernest Mbenkum, Founder of Interstellar Inc. and the Bantu Blockchain Foundation. Both Elizabeth and Ernest have been instrumental in the development of Africa’s blockchain landscape, with Elizabeth having spoken at the inaugural conference back in 2015. This session will not only reflect on their decade-long journeys but also explore how the industry has transformed over the years. Attendees can expect an engaging discussion on the evolution of blockchain technology in Africa, the impact of regulatory changes, and insights into future opportunities as we commemorate a decade of innovation and growth in the African crypto and blockchain space.
Stablecoins in Africa: Understanding Their Adoption and Impact: Panelists will explore the adoption and use of stablecoins across Africa, emphasizing their role in mitigating currency volatility and offering solutions for cross-border trade. With nearly 70% of African countries facing foreign exchange shortages, stablecoins have emerged as a powerful tool for businesses and institutions to manage liquidity and stabilize their operations.
Connecting Cape Town’s Vibrant Web3 Community
Following the main event in Pretoria, the conference will move to Cape Town for a dedicated networking event with the local Web3 community. This exclusive gathering will allow international delegates to connect with Cape Town’s dynamic blockchain innovators, further expanding their networks and deepening their understanding of Africa’s thriving blockchain ecosystem.