Tether and the UN Support Africa’s Digital Future
Tether and the UN join forces to strengthen cybersecurity and digital education across Africa.
Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin issuer, has announced a partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The collaboration aims to enhance cybersecurity and promote public education on the safe use of digital assets across Africa.
The initiative responds to growing risks, as Africa has become the third-fastest-growing cryptocurrency market globally. According to shared estimates, the continent urgently needs around USD 260 million to strengthen protection against crypto-related and traditional financial crime.
This cooperation aligns with UNODC’s strategic vision for Africa through 2030. Its goals include building community resilience, safeguarding digital assets, and raising awareness of emerging threats. The use of blockchain technology and other modern solutions is expected to help reduce vulnerabilities to cybercrime.
The partners are rolling out three core initiatives. Under Project Senegal, multi-stage educational programs—primarily targeting young people—focus on cybersecurity fundamentals. These include bootcamps supported by mentoring and micro-grants to help participants develop their own ideas.
Project Africa centers on direct support for victims of human trafficking in countries such as Senegal, Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Uganda. Assistance is delivered through selected civil society organizations.
Meanwhile, Project Papua New Guinea aims to raise awareness among students at local universities. It features a student competition rewarding innovative blockchain solutions that promote financial inclusion and crime prevention.
According to Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino, the partnership combines innovation with education to empower communities and create safer, more accessible opportunities. UNODC representative Sylvie Bertrand emphasized the importance of public–private partnerships in developing digital skills and building secure digital ecosystems.
