BitKE

SARS, in partnership with the Reserve Bank and Home Affairs, is developing a digital identity to streamline South Africa's identification system. This initiative aims to enhance efficiency and security while reducing fraud, akin to similar efforts in Kenya and Nigeria.

Nigerian fintech Carbon has discontinued its debit card services two years post-launch. Co-Founder Ngozi Dozie expresses uncertainty about the strategy of neobanks pushing card services, questioning if it was wise for all involved or just a matter of bad luck for Carbon.

China's digital yuan had over 100 billion transactions by August 2022 and launched a mobile app in September for use in 23 cities. Integrating with platforms like WeChat and Alibaba enhances its accessibility, expanding the pilot program for wider adoption.

Standard Chartered predicts Bitcoin could reach nearly $200,000 by the end of 2025, driven by the success of U.S. Bitcoin ETFs. An influx of $50-100 billion from these funds and the upcoming halving are key factors in this forecast.

Madica, a Flourish Ventures initiative, aims to invest in 30 pre-seed African startups over three years, focusing on underrepresented founders. With $6 million allocated, it offers $200,000 investments and personalized support to eligible ventures.

Jumia shares dropped 14% following the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) news that co-founders, Sacha Poignonnec and Jeremy Hodara, were leaving the company.
The company stock is currently 71% down from its IPO opening price of $14.95, eliminating 75% gains post-IPO Jumia, which became the first

Anchor, launched in August 2022, raised over $1 million in pre-seed funding. Its API tools help businesses create financial products. With 40+ on a waitlist and 200% monthly growth, Anchor aims to simplify fintech in Africa.

Base, Coinbase's Ethereum layer-2 blockchain, launches an eight-week course for mid to senior software developers to transition into blockchain developers. The program features mentorship, access to engineers, collaboration tools, and a comprehensive curriculum, aiming to grow on-chain development. Applications for cohort 4 close on December 15, 2023.

Paga, a Nigerian digital bank, has partnered with Visa to launch virtual and physical cards for over 17 million users. The cards allow online and in-store payments, real-time funding, and unique payment links, enhancing financial services in Nigeria.

West Data Group is constructing a 20MW Bitcoin mining facility in Wolaita Sodo, Ethiopia, with a $15 million investment. Set to operate in six months, it will feature 6,000 mining units, leveraging the country's renewable energy resources.

The FCCPC has registered 211 loan apps in Nigeria, with 172 receiving full approval. Despite steps to regulate digital lending, new unethical practices persist, prompting increased scrutiny and the delisting of 45 apps from the Play Store.

Safaricom and the Kenya Bankers Association are proposing to integrate M-PESA with the PesaLink interbank payment system to enhance financial transactions in Kenya. This integration would allow seamless transfers between mobile wallets and bank accounts, addressing current limitations and fostering a more interconnected financial ecosystem.