Btrust, a non-profit organisation co-founded by music icon Jay-Z and Block CEO Jack Dorsey, has acquired Qala, an African Bitcoin talent development firm. This acquisition, which remains undisclosed in its financial terms, holds the potential to transform the world of Bitcoin software development in Africa. How?
Btrust has made it its mission to decentralise Bitcoin software development, particularly in the African and Indian regions. With a commitment to promoting innovation in Bitcoin technology, Btrust launched with the goal of deploying approximately 500 Bitcoin (BTC), equivalent to $23.6 million, to support its mission.
Qala is a well-known training organisation that specialises in Bitcoin development and engineering in Africa. Founded by esteemed members of the Btrust board, including Nur Khalil, Carla Kirk-Cohen, Bernard Parah (CEO of Bitnob), and Tim Akinbo, it embarked on its journey with the aspiration of empowering African talent in the realm of Bitcoin.
In 2021, Qala secured a vital 0.5 Bitcoin grant from the New York-based Human Rights Foundation (HRF) to facilitate the training of ten Bitcoin developers in Africa. The firm’s dedication to fostering local expertise in Bitcoin development was a commendable step towards building a robust cryptocurrency ecosystem in the continent.
The acquisition of Qala by Btrust marks an exciting chapter in the development of Bitcoin in Africa. Qala’s transformation into the “₿trust Builders Programme” underscores the consolidation of their shared vision. Both entities are committed to advancing Bitcoin development in Africa, but each brings a unique strength to the table.
Btrust has substantial financial resources, which will provide crucial support for ambitious projects. However, it has lacked the organizational structure to create a sustainable talent pipeline for African Bitcoin developers, often depending on grants to fulfill its mission. In contrast, Qala has the expertise and organizational framework to nurture local talent but has struggled to secure consistent funding.
Btrust’s acquisition of Qala brings together the necessary resources and expertise to create a flourishing community of Bitcoin-focused African developers, effectively addressing Qala’s longstanding financial sustainability challenge.
As Africa’s population grows and its purchasing power increases, the potential for Bitcoin adoption in the region is immense. The challenges that have historically stifled the growth of the cryptocurrency sector in Africa, such as infrastructure limitations, can be overcome through concerted efforts by organisations like Btrust and Qala.
