Tunisia, a small country in North Africa, may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of tech startups. But over the past few years, the country has experienced a boom in entrepreneurship and innovation, with a growing number of startups disrupting traditional industries and solving unique local challenges.

One of the most exciting areas of growth in Tunisia's tech scene is in the fintech sector. In a country where nearly half of the population is unbanked, startups like Paymee and Expensya are helping to bring financial services to underserved communities. Paymee, for example, allows users to make payments and transfer money using their mobile phones, while Expensya helps businesses manage their expenses and streamline their accounting processes.

Another area of innovation in Tunisia is in the field of education technology. With the COVID-19 pandemic forcing schools to close and shift to online learning, startups like GoMyCode and Edumetric have stepped up to provide digital learning solutions for students and teachers. GoMyCode offers coding bootcamps and tech courses online, while Edumetric provides a platform for teachers to create and share educational content.

Tunisia's tech startups are also making waves in the travel and hospitality industry. With tourism being a major source of income for the country, startups like Trip4Care and Wibees are helping to attract more visitors and enhance the travel experience. Trip4Care offers medical tourism services, while Wibees is a platform for booking unique and authentic experiences with local hosts.

Of course, Tunisia's tech scene still faces its share of challenges, including a lack of funding and a shortage of skilled talent. But with the government and private sector investing more in innovation and entrepreneurship, the future looks bright for Tunisia's startups.

In conclusion, Tunisia may be small in size, but it's big on ideas and innovation. From fintech to edtech to traveltech, the country's startups are pushing boundaries and driving progress. Who knows – the next big tech unicorn could be born in Tunisia.

Nairobi, Kenya, is quickly becoming a fashion capital of the world, with a new generation of designers and entrepreneurs using technology to disrupt the traditional fashion industry. With e-commerce, 3D printing, and other cutting-edge technologies, these fashion-forward thinkers are creating innovative and sustainable fashion brands.

One example of this trend is Kiko Romeo, a fashion label founded by designer Ann McCreath. The brand has gained worldwide recognition for its use of African prints and textiles, as well as its commitment to ethical and sustainable production. Kiko Romeo's designs are sold both online and in physical stores, using e-commerce to reach a global audience.

Another company making waves in the industry is Closet49, an online marketplace for pre-owned designer fashion. By allowing users to buy and sell high-end fashion items, Closet49 is promoting sustainable and circular fashion, while also giving consumers access to luxury brands at a more affordable price.

In addition to e-commerce, 3D printing is also changing the game in Nairobi's fashion industry. Designer Wambui Kibue has used 3D printing technology to create unique and sustainable jewelry pieces for her brand, Kipato Unbranded. The brand's designs are made from recycled brass and bone, and the use of 3D printing allows for precise and intricate designs.

But the tech disruption doesn't stop there. The African Fashion and Design Week, held annually in Nairobi, showcases even more innovative uses of technology in fashion. From augmented reality fashion shows to AI-powered styling assistants, the event is a hub for the latest tech advancements in the industry.

By embracing technology and innovation, Nairobi's fashion industry is not only creating new opportunities for designers and entrepreneurs, but also promoting sustainability and ethical production practices. It's an exciting time for the city, as it becomes a global leader in fashion and technology.

1. "KikoRomeo: The Ethical African Fashion Brand to Have on Your Radar" (https://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/article/kiko-romeo-african-fashion)
2. "Closet49: How this online marketplace is making luxury fashion affordable" (https://www.cnn.com/2019/07/23/africa/closet49-kenya-sustainable-luxury-fashion/index.html)
3. "Meet Wambui Kibue, The Kenyan Designer Making Sustainable Jewelry With 3D Printing" (https://afrotech.com/meet-wambui-kibue-the-kenyan-designer-making-sustainable-jewelry-with-3d-printing)
4. "African Fashion and Design Week" (https://www.afdwng.com/)

These links can provide you with more information about Nairobi's fashion industry, the companies mentioned in the article, and other similar initiatives.

Financial inclusion has been a pressing issue in Africa for a long time, with millions of people still unbanked and lacking access to formal financial services. However, the emergence of cryptocurrencies has opened up new opportunities for individuals to participate in the financial system and become investors. This is the story of one African who went from being unbanked to becoming a crypto investor, demonstrating the power of financial inclusion in Africa.

Meet Kofi, a young man who lives in a remote village in Ghana. Kofi's family has been farming for generations, and they have always struggled to access financial services due to their location and lack of formal identification. Kofi grew up knowing little about traditional banking and had no idea how to access financial services, let alone invest.

However, Kofi's life took a turn when he heard about cryptocurrencies. Intrigued by the concept, he decided to learn more about it and realized the potential for cryptocurrencies to provide financial inclusion to people like him. He started reading and watching videos online to understand how cryptocurrencies work and began investing in small amounts using a mobile app.

As Kofi continued to learn and invest, he started seeing profits and was able to use his earnings to help his family and even expand their farm. He also started sharing his knowledge with others in his village, and soon many others began investing in cryptocurrencies, opening up new possibilities for financial inclusion in their community.

Kofi's story is not only unique, but  it also demonstrates the power of cryptocurrencies to provide financial inclusion in Africa. Cryptocurrencies provide an alternative way to access financial services, without the need for traditional banking, identification or even a physical address. This can be especially beneficial for people living in remote areas who have historically struggled to access formal financial services.

However, there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that cryptocurrencies can be used effectively for financial inclusion in Africa. For example, education and awareness campaigns are needed to help individuals understand and adopt cryptocurrencies. Additionally, regulatory frameworks need to be developed to protect investors and prevent fraud.

In conclusion, Kofi's story is a testament to the transformative power of cryptocurrencies in providing financial inclusion in Africa. It demonstrates that with education, access to technology and the right mindset, anyone can become an investor and take control of their financial future. As cryptocurrencies continue to evolve, they have the potential to revolutionize the financial system in Africa, and it is up to individuals, governments and the private sector to work together to ensure that this potential is fully realized.

Cryptocurrency trading has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people looking to invest in digital assets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other altcoins. While there are many decentralized exchanges available, centralized exchanges remain the most popular option for many traders due to their ease of use and security. In this article, we will explore the top 10 centralized cryptocurrency exchanges owned by Africans.

1. Luno: It is a popular cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2013 by South Africans Marcus Swanepoel and Timothy Stranex, though registered in Singapore. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. Luno is available in over 40 countries worldwide and is regulated by several financial authorities.

Currently, there are 8 coins and 51 trading pairs available on the exchange. It's 24 hours traded volume was reported to be at $10,442,083.44 and it has over 10 million users.

2. BitPesa: It's a Kenya-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2013. The platform allows users to buy, sell, and trade Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies. BitPesa has a strong presence in Africa and is regulated by the Central Bank of Kenya.

A report stated that Bitpesa was formerly sending $5000 a month in the launch year but currently it sends $65M a month in a cross boarder payment and serving about 11 African countries.

3. Yellow Card: It's a Nigeria-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2016. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. Yellow Card has gained popularity in Africa due to its ease of use and low transaction fees.

It achieved a huge milestone in the year, 2021 by securing a Series A of $15M fund round, it established the YC Academy and have so far expanded it's business to 14 countries. In 2022, it relaunched in Nigeria - it's parent location, as it withdrew it's business earlier from the country in 2021 due to the Federal Government policy, mandating it's commercial banks and financial institutions to stop interacting with crypto entities and individuals. 

4. BuyCoins: It's a Nigeria-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2017. The platform allows users to buy and sell Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies using Nigerian Naira. BuyCoins has gained popularity in Nigeria due to its ease of use and low transaction fees.

5. Coindirect: It's a South Africa-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2017. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. Coindirect has gained popularity in Africa due to its user-friendly interface and low transaction fees.

6. Quidax: It's a Nigeria-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2017 by Buchi Okoro and Morris Ebieroma. The platform allows users to buy and sell Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. Quidax has gained popularity in Nigeria due to its low transaction fees and user-friendly interface. 

The exchange have over four hundred thousand (4000) users. They've so far raised a total funding of $3.6 million, with the latest funding on May, 24,2021. They also accept local naira currency for cryptocurrency transactions on their platform.

7. BitSika: It's a Ghana-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2018. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. BitSika has gained popularity in Ghana due to its ease of use and low transaction fees.

8. ICE3X: It's a South Africa-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2013. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. ICE3X has gained popularity in Africa due to its low transaction fees and user-friendly interface.

9. KubitX: It's a Nigerian-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2017. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. KubitX has gained popularity in Nigeria due to its low transaction fees and fast transaction processing times.

10.  NairaEx: It's a Nigeria-based cryptocurrency exchange that was founded in 2015. The platform allows users to buy, sell and store Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies in a secure manner. NairaEx has gained popularity in Nigeria due to its low transaction fees and ease of use. 

It's over 130 thousand users are close to a million transactions. The platform for now only support's the Nigerian naira fiat currency as a payment method.

In conclusion, these are the top 10 centralized cryptocurrency exchanges owned by Africans. Each exchange has its unique features and advantages, but they all offer a secure and user-friendly way to buy, sell, and store cryptocurrencies in Africa. Though it's always advisable that you do your own research before chosing to invest your money in any of these exchanges.

As the cryptocurrency market continues to grow in Africa, we can expect to see more African-owned exchanges.

Remittance is a lifeline for many communities in Africa, and the Igbede community is no exception. Like many other rural communities in West Africa, Igbede relies on the money sent back home by family members working abroad. But the high cost of remittance and payment fees meant that much of that money was being lost to fees and currency conversions, leaving families struggling to make ends meet.

But in Igbede, a group of determined individuals decided to take matters into their own hands and find a way to overcome the challenges of high remittance fees. They began by researching different remittance providers, comparing fees and exchange rates, and exploring alternatives to the traditional remittance channels.

Their search led them to a local fintech startup that offered low-cost remittance services. The startup had a transparent fee structure, competitive exchange rates, and a user-friendly app that made it easy for community members to send and receive money. The Igbede community leaders were impressed with what they saw and decided to partner with the startup.

To promote the new remittance service, the community leaders organized informational meetings and workshops, teaching people how to use the app and explaining the benefits of low-cost remittance. They also set up kiosks in local markets and other gathering places, where people could learn more and sign up for the service.

Slowly but surely, the word began to spread, and more and more community members began using the new remittance service. As more people signed up, the volume of transactions increased, and the provider was able to lower its fees even further, making it even more affordable for people to send and receive money.

Today, the Igbede community is a model for others seeking to overcome the challenges of high remittance fees. By taking matters into their own hands and partnering with a low-cost provider, they have been able to reduce the cost of remittance and put more money back into the hands of families and communities.

This story is a testament to the power of community-led initiatives in Africa. With determination, resourcefulness, and a willingness to try new things, communities like Igbede can overcome the challenges of high remittance fees and build a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones. By working together and exploring new solutions, they can turn the tide and unlock the full potential of remittance in Africa.

Education is a critical component of development, yet many rural communities in Tanzania lack access to quality learning opportunities. However, the adoption of digital learning platforms is transforming the education landscape and bridging the gap between rural and urban areas.

Digital learning is opening new doors for students in Tanzania's remote regions, where access to traditional schools is limited. The adoption of technology-based education platforms is allowing students to learn at their own pace, on their own schedules, and from any location with internet access. This is especially important in a country like Tanzania, where many children face long distances and challenging commutes to reach schools.

Digital learning is also enhancing the quality of education in Tanzania's rural areas. With the use of interactive multimedia resources, online quizzes, and virtual classroom sessions, digital learning is making the education experience more engaging and interactive for students. This is driving improved student performance and enabling better teacher-student interactions.

One digital education platform making a significant impact in Tanzania is eLimu, which provides interactive digital content for primary school students. With engaging visuals, animations, and interactive games, eLimu is making learning fun and engaging for young students, which is crucial for building a strong foundation for future academic success.

The adoption of digital learning in Tanzania's rural areas is also creating new opportunities for employment and entrepreneurship. With the growth of digital education platforms, new roles such as online tutors, content creators, and software developers are emerging, creating jobs and promoting innovation in the education sector.

The success of digital learning in Tanzania's rural areas is due to the collaboration between government, education providers, and communities. By working together, stakeholders are developing digital education solutions that are responsive to the needs and realities of rural communities, and that are making a positive impact on the lives of students and families.

In conclusion, the adoption of digital learning platforms is revolutionising education in rural Tanzania. By providing access to quality learning opportunities and promoting innovative approaches to education, digital learning is creating new opportunities for growth and development in Tanzania's rural communities. The continued expansion of digital education solutions has the potential to drive progress towards universal education access and a brighter future for all students.

Financial inclusion is crucial to the development and growth of any economy, given the large un-banked population in Africa, venture capitalists now invest hugely in Fintech start-ups in Africa. 

Financial inclusion refers to the provision of affordable and accessible financial services to individuals and businesses that lack access to traditional banking services. In Africa, where the majority of the population is un-banked, financial inclusion has become a critical issue, with Fintech playing a vital role in driving financial inclusion in the region.

Fintech refers to technology-enabled financial services that are designed to make financial services more accessible and affordable to the unbanked population. Fintech companies in Africa have been at the forefront of driving financial inclusion in the region, and venture capitalists have been keen to invest in these startups. In this article, we will explore the role of Fintech in driving financial inclusion in Africa and why venture capitalists favor Fintech startups.

The Role of Fintech in Driving Financial Inclusion in Africa

In Africa, where a significant percentage of the population lacks access to banking services, Fintech has been instrumental in driving financial inclusion. Fintech companies in Africa have developed innovative products and services that make it easier for people to access financial services. Some of these products and services include mobile banking, online lending, and digital wallets.

Mobile banking has been one of the most successful Fintech innovations in Africa. Mobile banking allows people to access banking services using their mobile phones, and it has been particularly successful in rural areas where traditional banking services are not available. Mobile banking has made it possible for people to access basic financial services such as savings accounts, money transfers, and bill payments. Mobile banking has also enabled small businesses to access credit and other financial services that were previously unavailable to them.

Online lending is another Fintech innovation that has been instrumental in driving financial inclusion in Africa. Online lending platforms provide small businesses and individuals with access to credit that they would not otherwise have. These platforms use alternative data sources such as mobile phone usage and social media activity to assess creditworthiness, making it easier for people who do not have a credit history to access credit. Online lending platforms have also made it possible for small businesses to access credit without having to go through the lengthy and cumbersome process of traditional bank lending.

Digital wallets have also been a game-changer in driving financial inclusion in Africa. Digital wallets allow people to store money, make payments, and access financial services using their mobile phones. Digital wallets have made it possible for people to access financial services without having to go to a bank, making it easier for people who live in remote areas to access financial services.

Why venture capitalists favours Fintech startups in Africa 

Here are some possible reasons why venture capitalists favor Fintech startups in Africa:

1. Huge market opportunity: Africa has a large unbanked population, with over 60% of adults lacking access to formal financial services. This represents a significant market opportunity for Fintech startups to provide innovative and accessible financial services.

2. Tailored solutions for the African market: Fintech startups in Africa are developing products and services that are specifically designed to meet the unique needs and challenges of the African market. This gives them an advantage over traditional financial institutions that may not have the same level of understanding of the local context.

3. Agility and innovation: They are generally more agile and innovative than traditional banks, as they are not constrained by legacy systems and structures. This allows them to respond quickly to market needs and develop new solutions more efficiently.

4. Cost-effectiveness: Fintech startups can leverage technology to deliver financial services more efficiently, which allows them to offer their services at a lower cost than traditional banks. This makes them more accessible to low-income populations and small businesses.

5. Potential for social impact: Many Fintech startups in Africa have a strong social mission to promote financial inclusion and improve the lives of underserved populations. This resonates with many venture capitalists who are looking for investments that can generate both financial returns and social impact.

Some venture capitalists favouring Fintech startups in Africa 

Some of them includes;

1. Accion Venture Lab: Its a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage Fintech startups that promote financial inclusion. The firm has invested in several Fintech startups in Africa, including Branch, Pula, and Lidya.

2. Quona Capital: They focus on Fintech startups in emerging markets. The firm has invested in several Fintech startups in Africa, including Yoco, Asoko Insight, and Zoona.

3. Novastar Ventures: They  invest in early-stage businesses in Africa. The firm has invested in several Fintech startups in Africa, including Tugende, MFS Africa, and Lidya.

4. Omidyar Network: Its a philanthropic investment firm that invests in businesses that promote social impact. The firm has invested in several Fintech startups in Africa, including Flutterwave, Lidya, and Lumkani.

5. The Rise Fund: Its a global impact investment fund that invests in businesses that create positive social and environmental outcomes. The fund has invested in several Fintech startups in Africa, including Cellulant and Branch.

In conclusion, Fintech has played a crucial role in driving financial inclusion in Africa. Fintech companies in the region have developed innovative products and services that make it easier for people to access financial services, particularly in rural areas where traditional banking services are not available. 

Venture capitalists have been keen to invest in Fintech startups in Africa due to the significant market opportunity, the tailored solutions developed for the African market, the agility and innovation of these startups, and their cost-effectiveness. As Fintech continues to evolve in Africa, it is expected that more people will gain access to financial services, which will drive economic growth and development in the region.

The world is becoming increasingly interconnected, and as a result, cross-border payment and remittance services have become more important than ever before. In recent years, the growth of e-commerce, online marketplaces, and global trade has fueled the demand for efficient, secure, and affordable cross-border payment and remittance solutions. In this article, we will explore the rise of cross-border payment and remittance, the challenges faced by those involved, and the potential benefits for individuals and businesses.

The Rise of Cross-Border Payment and Remittance

Cross-border payment and remittance services are now a significant part of the global economy. According to a report by the World Bank, remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries reached a record high of $553 billion in 2021, and this figure is expected to continue to rise. The growth of cross-border payment and remittance services has been driven by a number of factors, including:

1. Globalization: The increase in global trade and cross-border transactions has created a demand for efficient and reliable cross-border payment and remittance solutions.

2. E-commerce: The growth of e-commerce and online marketplaces has made it easier for businesses to sell their products and services across borders, leading to an increase in cross-border payments.

3. Migration: The movement of people across borders for work and other reasons has led to an increase in remittance flows as individuals send money back to their home countries.

Challenges Faced by Those Involved

Despite the growth in cross-border payment and remittance services, there are still many challenges faced by those involved. One of the biggest challenges is the high cost of sending and receiving money across borders. According to the World Bank, the average cost of sending $200 to a low- or middle-income country was 6.5% in the first quarter of 2021. This is well above the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal target of 3%.

Another challenge is regulatory compliance. Cross-border payment and remittance services are subject to a variety of regulations, including anti-money laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. Compliance with these regulations can be time-consuming and expensive, particularly for small businesses.

The Potential Benefits for Individuals and Businesses

Despite these challenges, there are many potential benefits to cross-border payment and remittance services. For individuals, these services provide a way to send money home to their families and loved ones, helping to support their basic needs such as food, housing, and education.

For businesses, cross-border payment and remittance services offer a way to expand their customer base and access new markets. By offering efficient and secure cross-border payment options, businesses can increase their competitiveness and reach new customers around the world.

In addition to these benefits, cross-border payment and remittance services can also promote financial inclusion. By providing access to formal financial services to people who are unbanked or underbanked, these services can help to reduce poverty and improve living standards.

In conclusion, the rise of cross-border payment and remittance services has transformed the way we do business and live our lives. While there are still challenges to be addressed, the potential benefits for individuals and businesses are significant. By breaking down borders and increasing access to efficient and affordable cross-border payment and remittance solutions, we can help to create a more connected and prosperous world.

A 51% attack is when one or more miners control more than half of the network's mining activity and launch an attack against a blockchain. When this occurs, the miners can make a copy of the blockchain that omits specific transactions and mark it as the original version. They will be able to double spend coins after reversing transactions due to this.

Understanding the details

A blockchain is a network of interlinked blocks used to store data in a digital ledger. By a process of verification, the blockchain network comes to a consensus about transactions, and the blocks containing the data are then sealed. When one organization holds more than half of the network's hashing power, the 51% attack takes place. Then, because the attackers control the majority of the blockchain, these group of hackers add a deviant blockchain to the network at a very specific point in the blockchain.

Despite acquiring a sizable portion of the blockchain, the hackers will have a very difficult time changing blocks that were locked prior to the attack. It is more difficult to modify transactions that are deeper in the past. Another problem is the excessively high cost of carrying out 51% attacks. An attack of this kind is challenging on a big network with lots of users. Before out-hashing the mainnet, the group of attackers would need to possess the required 51% of the market and have built an alternative blockchain. The main barrier preventing more frequent occurrence of 51% attacks is the expense involved.

Who is at risk?

Because certain mining networks are more secure than others, the kind of mining equipment being used is also important. Smaller networks are typically targets for 51% attackers since it is simpler to take control of the majority in such networks, while larger networks like Bitcoin are less likely to be attacked. Since June 2019, more than 40 51% attacks on Bitcoin Gold, Litecoin, and other minor cryptocurrencies have been discovered or reported to the Michigan Institute for Technology's Digital Currency Project.

Conclusion

The frequency of blockchain hacks is rising, giving the technology the appearance of being very unstable. This is because the industry's weaknesses in offering sufficient security to its clients have been made public. Hackers have stolen more than $2 billion since 2017, and the number of occurrences does not appear to be decreasing. This has made it quite clear that hacking blockchain technology is not impossible, and users should exercise caution or suffer costly repercussions.

For refugees in Uganda's camps, accessing financial services has long been a challenge. With limited access to banks and other financial institutions, many have been forced to rely on informal networks and cash transactions. But now, mobile money is changing the game, providing refugees with a powerful tool for financial inclusion.

Mobile money is a digital payment system that allows users to store and transfer money using their mobile phones. In Uganda, this technology has become a lifeline for refugees, providing them with a safe, secure, and accessible way to manage their finances.

One of the key players in this mobile money revolution is MTN Uganda, a mobile network operator that has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to provide financial services to refugees in the country. Through this partnership, refugees can open mobile money accounts, which they can use to receive and send money, pay bills, and access other financial services.

According to MTN Uganda, more than 1.4 million refugees and host community members have now registered for mobile money services, with over $1 billion in transactions processed in 2020 alone. This has not only provided refugees with greater financial security, but has also helped to boost local economies, by enabling refugees to buy goods and services from local businesses.

For aid workers in the camps, the impact of mobile money has been profound. "It's really transformed the way we work with refugees," says Sarah Kim, a field officer with UNHCR. "Now, we can provide cash assistance directly to refugees' mobile money accounts, which is faster, cheaper, and more secure than other forms of aid delivery."

Mobile money has also enabled refugees to connect with their families and communities, even when they are separated by distance. By using mobile money to send and receive money, refugees can provide financial support to their loved ones, and maintain important social and economic ties.

As MTN Uganda CEO Wim Vanhelleputte puts it, "Mobile money has the power to transform lives and communities, and to bring financial inclusion to those who need it most. We are proud to be part of this effort, and to work with our partners to make a difference in the lives of refugees and host communities in Uganda."

In a world where financial inclusion is still a challenge for millions of people, mobile money offers a glimmer of hope. For refugees in Uganda's camps, it is providing a path to greater security, resilience, and opportunity, and helping to build a brighter future for themselves and their families