Tanzanian Bitcoin enthusiast summits Kilimanjaro for cryptocurrency awareness

In an attempt to raise awareness for Bitcoin and decentralized protocols, Kweks, a passionate Bitcoin educator based in Tanzania, successfully ascended Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Instead of traditional fundraising methods, Kweks crowdfunded the journey via Bitcoin and Nostr donations, raising over $1,700 in Bitcoin, equivalent to 0.0018 BTC. This remarkable feat was not just a personal challenge but also an announcement to introduce a new Bitcoin-focused educational institution in Tanzania.

Funding the ascent with bitcoin

In an attempt to raise awareness for Bitcoin and decentralized protocols, Kweks, a passionate Bitcoin educator based in Tanzania, successfully ascended Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa. Instead of traditional fundraising methods, Kweks crowdfunded the journey via Bitcoin and Nostr donations, raising over $1,700 in Bitcoin, equivalent to 0.0018 BTC. This remarkable feat was not just a personal challenge but also an announcement to introduce a new Bitcoin-focused educational institution in Tanzania.

Kweks and his wife, recent transplants to a new Tanzanian city, are set to open an educational center named the “Proof of Work Academy” or POWA. Drawing inspiration from Bitcoin’s consensus protocol, ‘proof-of-work’, the name POWA also plays on the Swahili word “Poah”, signifying something fresh or cool. To subtly showcase his dedication to decentralized protocols like Bitcoin and Nostr (an acronym for notes and other stuff transmitted by relay), Kweks ensured the entire ascent, reaching close to 6,000 meters, was funded in satoshis or sats – the smallest Bitcoin denomination.

Generous Bitcoin advocates and Nostr users from all corners of the globe supported Kweks’ initiative. They made their contributions through the Bitcoin Lightning Network on platforms like Geyser Fund and Zapraising. For those unfamiliar with Zapraising, it facilitates Bitcoin Lightning Network crowdfunding through Nostr, often referred to as Zaps.

During his ambitious journey, Kweks proudly displayed a Nostr flag, updating his progress on platforms like X, Nostr, and WhatsApp. While discussing the significance of this endeavor, he emphasized that beyond the funds, the impact was largely educational. Kweks stated, “I thought it [the ascent] would be a great case study to show what Bitcoin can do and then introduce some people to Bitcoin as well.”

Bitcoin adoption in Tanzania: Hopes and challenges

A heartening moment for Kweks was when one of the mountain guides tipped him, showcasing that grassroots Bitcoin adoption was sprouting in Tanzania. Although there is some understanding of Bitcoin among Tanzanians, the primary challenge remains the absence of convenient off-ramps to convert Bitcoin into local currency. Prominent exchanges like Coinbase, Kraken, and Gemini are currently not operational in Tanzania, making the process of exchanging Bitcoin for cash rather intricate.

Yet, the most frequently posed question Kweks encountered was, “What is Bitcoin?” This underscores the educational work that lies ahead. Bitcoin adoption and understanding in Tanzania is distinctively different from more mature markets like the United Kingdom, where Kweks spent a considerable part of his life.

Kweks reflects on the prevailing economic system in Tanzania and highlights the prominent barter culture in East Africa. With inflation taking a toll on the local currency, he underscores the importance of simplifying the concept of cryptocurrencies. “When I arrived in Tanzania ten years ago, $1 was 1,500 hundred Tanzanian shillings. As of today, [$1 equals] 2,600. That’s ten years later. It’s crazy!” he exclaimed.

Kweks’ endeavor: Bridging local concerns with Bitcoin education

To help locals grasp the significance of Bitcoin, Kweks takes a relatable approach, discussing everyday concerns like the rising costs of bread and fuel. He notes, “They see that it’s harder to make ends meet. So with these concepts, they understand that Bitcoin the tool can help them — and that’s the work. That’s the work that needs to be shared and explored.”

Post his Kilimanjaro ascent, Kweks remains active in promoting Bitcoin knowledge. He continues to share educational content on platforms like Nostr and X. His much-anticipated educational resource, POWA, is committed to providing free educational sessions to Tanzanians living in the vicinity of Kilimanjaro.

Conclusion

Kweks’ journey symbolizes more than just an ascent of Africa’s highest peak. It stands as a testament to the potential of Bitcoin and decentralized protocols. With institutions like POWA and passionate educators like Kweks, the future of Bitcoin in Tanzania looks promising.