In 2025, Africa has shown a determination to navigate the complex crypto landscape. Recent events illustrate that the continent is not just a passive observer but an active participant in shaping the crypto narrative.

From the CEO of South Africa’s central bank questioning the viability of designating Bitcoin as a strategic asset to regulatory measures in Kenya and emerging mining operations in Ethiopia, Africa positions itself as a leader in the cryptocurrency space.

South Africa Crypto News: Governor Questions Bitcoin As a Strategic Reserve Asset

Lesetja Kganyago, the Governor of the South African Reserve Bank, expressed skepticism over Bitcoin’s designation as a strategic reserve asset. During a World Economic Forum address, he asked, “Why Bitcoin? Why not beef, mutton, or apples?” This critique reflects concerns over Bitcoin’s lack of intrinsic value compared to traditional assets like gold.

Kganyago warned of potential “regulatory capture,” where industry interests may dominate policymaking.

In contrast, Coinbase’s CEO, Brian Armstrong, champions Bitcoin’s merits, asserting that its scarcity and transferability render it a superior store of value compared to gold, which is often cumbersome for national reserves.

Kenya Crypto News: Firms Must Open Offices Locally

Kenya is advancing regulatory measures for cryptocurrencies with the Virtual Asset Service Providers bill. This bill outlines requirements for crypto firms to establish local offices and employ local executives approved by authorities like the Capital Markets Authority (CMA).

As of January 25, public feedback on the bill was still solicited, indicating an effort to clarify a previously nebulous regulatory environment in the country.

Ethiopia Crypto News: New Firms Launching

Ethiopia is emerging as a global leader in crypto mining, leveraging its renewable energy sources to attract miners relocating from China and Mongolia. The Phoenix Group of Abu Dhabi recently partnered with Data7 to utilize their mining capacity, marking Ethiopia as one of the world’s significant players in Bitcoin hash rate production.

Munaf Ali, the CEO, stated, “We are aggressively building out our mining capabilities… we are strategically positioning ourselves at the forefront of a financial revolution where cryptocurrencies will play a central role in creating a more inclusive and dynamic global economy.”

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Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Crypto is a high-risk asset class. This article is provided for informational purposes and does not constitute investment advice. Always do your due diligence.