Our journey into Uganda began during our Christmas road trip and meeting, Brindon the founder of Bitcoin Kampala, an organization focused on improving literacy and adoption in Uganda. He and Afan, a crucial team member stay in Kikoni, a community of students, young professionals, and healthcare workers. Kikoni is next to the largest university in East Africa (Makerere University) and 10 minutes away from Mulago National Referral Hospital. After graduating, Brindon and Afan chose to stay in this area to further the adoption of bitcoin with the demographic that needs it most, students (upcoming entrepreneurs and builders).
Since its inception, they’ve been a source of inspiration to foster a circular economy, enable others to accept bitcoin, and use it to empower their businesses. They’ve been key to merchant adoption and spreading grassroots awareness. Here are some anecdotes of their work:
- A barber who prefers bitcoin because he doesn't trust the value of the Ugandan Shilling long term (he was the first business in the community to accept it).
- A local street food vendor who now accepts bitcoin to receive payments easily from foreigners visiting his store.
- A fragrance store owner who wants to differentiate herself from the competition by accepting bitcoin.
- An online curriculum to help others learn about Bitcoin.
- A juice shop that provides sats back for its loyalty program.
- A group of students building a new circular economy in Najjanankumbi, a different neighborhood in Kampala.
Most important is their commitment to social work and their impact on the Orphans of Uganda Orphanage, located in the Bugiri district. A 'Fruit for Sats' program was launched, giving children fruits daily. New beds, toothbrushes, and essentials were also given. All thanks to the donations received through Bitcoin! They have now set their sights on saving the Starlight Elementary Primary School, using bitcoin as a tool for social transformation. If you'd like to learn more or donate, find them here.
I expect to hear great things from Uganda as Brindon and Afan stay on this 'orange' path. Check out Gorilla Sats if you'd like to see endangered mountain gorillas. there are only 1000 mountain gorillas in the world and Uganda is home to over 50% of them. We had the chance to see these magnificent mammals up close and learn about the conservation efforts. (more on this later)
Next, meeting a musical genius in Tanzania.
Sources:
- Bitcoin Kampala. BTCPay Server. https://btcpay0.voltageapp.io/apps/2HHdoHM52tr4wbx2KUaeguNKTDfm/crowdfund
- Starlight School. BTCPay Server. https://savestarlightschool.org/
- Mountain Gorilla. World Wildlife Fund (WWF). https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/mountain-gorilla
- Gorilla Sats. Website. https://www.gorilla-sats.com/
Comments
No comments yet. Start the conversation.