ADI Foundation and M-Pesa Join Forces to Bring Blockchain Access to Millions
Financial technology is undergoing a seismic shift in Africa, thanks to a landmark partnership between the ADI Foundation and M-Pesa. This collaboration is set to empower over 60 million mobile money users across eight countries by integrating blockchain technology into M-Pesa’s infrastructure.
Expanding Blockchain Access Across Africa
The partnership aims to deploy the ADI Chain, a regulatory-compliant blockchain network, across key markets in Africa, including Kenya, DR Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Ghana, Lesotho, Mozambique, and Tanzania. M-Pesa, a leading mobile money platform, has already revolutionized financial inclusion by providing access to digital payments. With this new partnership, users can now benefit from secure blockchain technology that enables cross-border payments, stablecoin transactions, and enhanced financial services.
Why Blockchain Matters for Financial Inclusion
African markets have been at the forefront of adopting decentralized digital tools. For example, Nigeria recorded over $50 billion in cryptocurrency transactions within 12 months, highlighting the immense potential for blockchain in everyday financial activities. Platforms like M-Pesa are well-poised to adopt blockchain solutions, given their existing groundwork in digital financial systems.
By incorporating blockchain, M-Pesa can offer users additional digital services, such as protection against currency volatility through stablecoins and streamlined cross-border payments. These advancements are particularly crucial for small businesses (SMEs) and individuals who struggle with access to traditional banking systems.
The Technology Behind ADI Chain
The ADI Chain is built on three core principles—compliance, efficiency, and security. It uses cutting-edge technologies like ZKsync’s Airbender, a system that improves transaction privacy and scalability. Furthermore, partnerships with renowned providers such as Alchemy, WalletConnect, and Covalent ensure robust blockchain connectivity and real-time data processing.
This infrastructure solves major challenges that have historically hindered blockchain adoption in Africa, including regulatory requirements and operational inefficiencies. By addressing these gaps, ADI Chain sets the stage for seamless integration into mobile money platforms like M-Pesa.
M-Pesa’s Commitment to Innovation
Sitoyo Lopokoiyit, CEO of M-Pesa Africa, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: “We are excited to partner with ADI Foundation to leverage their expertise in blockchain technology. This partnership will enable us to deliver innovative financial services to users across Africa.”
Notably, ADI Chain supports compliance with local financial regulations while enhancing transaction security. These features make blockchain integration viable for enterprises and governments.
Looking Ahead: Vision for 2030
This partnership is part of the ADI Foundation’s ambitious goal of onboarding one billion people to blockchain by 2030. With over 42% of adults in sub-Saharan Africa still unbanked, the demand for secure, accessible digital financial solutions is immense. The collaboration with M-Pesa represents a significant milestone toward transforming emerging markets with blockchain technology.
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Conclusion
The adoption of blockchain through partnerships like M-Pesa and ADI Foundation showcases the transformative potential of technology in improving financial inclusion. As Africa continues to lead innovation in this space, new solutions like the ADI Chain promise to drive economic empowerment and digital transformation across the continent.
