In 2012, Nigeria established a cashless policy, encouraging banks and people alike to take a step towards digital finance by making the use of notes and coins more expensive. Now, Wema Bank has launched ALAT, the continent’s first fully digital bank.

Rumbles of dissent against corrupt and disappointing governments are being heard worldwide. Through blockchain tech, Bitnation is creating a system of banking and governance that runs without any central authority. Can it offer a real alternative to the traditional nation state?

Blockchain is being touted as the next great technological disruptor, with financial firms investing heavily and cyber-libertarians hoping it’ll enable decentralised transactions and P2P commerce. But can it break into everyday usage, or will it become just another buzzword from the world of tech?

South Africa has the largest economy on the continent, but people are still putting their trust in cash payments rather than new fintech services. They’re opting out of mobile payment methods for reasons like fear of fraud and lack of knowledge about the options available.