Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin provider, has announced a strategic partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to enhance cybersecurity and digital literacy across Africa. The collaboration aligns with the UNODC’s Strategic Vision for Africa 2030 and aims to address the continent’s growing vulnerabilities to online fraud and cybercrime. By leveraging blockchain and emerging technologies, the initiative seeks to protect digital assets while supporting communities most at risk, including victims of human trafficking.
Targeted Programs and Initiatives
The partnership will launch several focused initiatives across the continent, beginning with youth-oriented programs in Senegal. These programs combine public cybersecurity education, bootcamps, mentorship, and micro-grants to foster digital innovation and resilience among young people. Tether and UNODC are also supporting civil society organizations in countries such as Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Uganda to provide direct assistance and protection for victims of cybercrime and human trafficking.
Beyond Africa, Tether is collaborating with universities in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands to increase awareness of financial inclusion and prevent digital asset fraud. These programs include blockchain-focused competitions designed to engage students in practical applications of technology while promoting secure digital practices. The approach underscores the partnership’s dual focus on education and technological innovation to create safer online ecosystems.
Addressing Emerging Risks in Africa
Africa’s rapid adoption of cryptocurrencies has brought both opportunities and challenges, with rising cases of online fraud and illicit financial activity. A recent Interpol operation highlighted the scale of the issue, uncovering $260 million in illicit crypto and fiat across the continent. The Tether-UNODC collaboration aims to mitigate these risks by building community resilience, enhancing cybersecurity awareness, and strengthening the security of digital financial systems.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, emphasized that the initiative merges education with technological innovation to empower communities and create inclusive opportunities for vulnerable populations. “Through this collaboration, we aim to protect digital assets and support victims of human trafficking, while equipping communities with the skills needed to navigate a rapidly evolving digital economy,” he said. The programs are designed to be scalable, ensuring that both urban and rural areas benefit from improved access to digital knowledge and resources.
Promoting Trust and Economic Growth
The partnership also carries broader financial and regulatory implications for Africa’s emerging digital asset markets. By strengthening community resilience and providing structured education on digital security, the initiative can build greater trust in stablecoins and other blockchain technologies. Sylvie Bertrand, UNODC Regional Representative for West and Central Africa, highlighted the transformative potential of digital assets for sustainable development, emphasizing that the programs will foster secure ecosystems and support economic growth while preventing organized crime.
Looking Ahead
The Tether-UNODC collaboration represents a landmark example of public-private partnership addressing both technological and social challenges across Africa. Future outcomes could include strengthened law enforcement capabilities in digital asset security and a more informed, digitally literate population better equipped to manage online risks. By combining funding, education, and technology, the initiative aims to create safer, more inclusive digital environments that can support resilient economic growth throughout the continent.
As Africa continues to embrace cryptocurrency and digital innovation, initiatives like the Tether-UNODC partnership provide critical infrastructure for cybersecurity, education, and community protection. By leveraging blockchain technology and targeted programs, the collaboration seeks to reduce vulnerabilities, support victims of crime, and foster long-term economic opportunities. This initiative underscores the importance of combining public and private sector expertise to address complex digital and social challenges in emerging markets.