Here's How Africans Use Bitcoin Without Internet Access
Imagine a world where cryptocurrency isn't limited by internet connectivity. In Africa, that reality is closer than you think. A huge percentage of the African population now transacts with Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies without internet access. This is made possible with a new invention and innovative solutions that circumvent the need for constant online access.
The Challenge: Internet Connectivity in Africa
While mobile phone penetration is high in many African countries, reliable and affordable internet access remains a significant barrier. This poses a problem for widespread adoption of Bitcoin, which traditionally requires an internet connection for transactions.
The Solution: Bitcoin via SMS and USSD
Fortunately, ingenious developers are creating solutions that allow users to interact with Bitcoin through SMS (Short Message Service) and USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) - technologies that require minimal internet connectivity, or even none at all.
Meet Machankura: Bitcoin Access for Feature Phones
South African software developer Kgothatso Ngako built a tool, Machankura, for accessing bitcoin despite the continent’s mobile internet connectivity. It provides an alternative means for users to access and interact with Bitcoin even in areas with limited Internet connectivity. To make it easier for feature phone users to send and receive Bitcoin. Machankura leverages SMS and USSD to facilitate transactions.
How Machankura Works
Users can send commands via SMS or USSD codes to their Machankura account. These commands allow them to:
- Check their Bitcoin balance
- Send Bitcoin to others
- Receive Bitcoin
- Convert Bitcoin to local currency (where available)
Benefits of Offline Bitcoin Transactions
Enabling Bitcoin transactions without internet access offers numerous advantages:
- Financial Inclusion: Reaches populations who are excluded from traditional banking due to lack of internet access.
- Lower Transaction Costs: Avoids the need for expensive data plans.
- Increased Accessibility: Makes Bitcoin accessible to anyone with a basic mobile phone.
- Greater Security: In some cases, SMS-based transactions can be more secure than relying on vulnerable internet connections.
The Future of Bitcoin in Africa
As more developers create innovative solutions like Machankura, Bitcoin adoption in Africa is poised to grow significantly. By bypassing the limitations of internet connectivity, cryptocurrency can truly empower individuals and drive financial inclusion across the continent. The ability to transact without relying on expensive data plans opens up a world of possibilities for commerce, remittances, and savings, making Bitcoin a valuable tool for economic empowerment.