Tether, the world’s largest stablecoin provider, has announced a strategic collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to enhance cybersecurity and public education on digital asset security across Africa. The initiative comes in response to the continent’s rapid growth in cryptocurrency adoption and rising vulnerabilities to online fraud, highlighted by a recent Interpol operation that uncovered $260 million in illicit crypto and fiat across Africa. Through this partnership, Tether aims to support the UNODC’s Strategic Vision for Africa 2030 by leveraging blockchain and emerging technologies to reduce cybercrime risks, strengthen economic opportunities, and protect vulnerable populations, including victims of human trafficking.
The collaboration focuses on several targeted initiatives. In Senegal, Tether and UNODC are launching a youth-focused program that combines public cybersecurity education, bootcamps, mentorship, and micro-grants to foster innovation and digital resilience. Across Africa, select civil society organizations in countries including Senegal, Nigeria, DRC, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Uganda will receive funding and support to provide direct assistance and protection for victims of human trafficking. Additionally, in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, Tether is partnering with universities to raise youth awareness of financial inclusion and digital asset fraud prevention through blockchain-focused competitions.
Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, emphasized that the partnership merges innovation and education to empower communities and create safer, inclusive opportunities for those most in need. Sylvie Bertrand, UNODC Regional Representative for West and Central Africa, highlighted the transformative potential of digital assets for Africa’s development, stressing that the initiative will strengthen digital skills, promote secure ecosystems, and contribute to sustainable economic growth while preventing organized crime. This collaboration represents a landmark example of public-private partnership addressing both technological and social challenges across the continent.
