Ripple Expands RLUSD Stablecoin into Africa

Ripple is introducing its U.S. dollar-backed stablecoin, RLUSD, to African markets through strategic fintech collaborations and humanitarian projects. In a tweet early today, Ripple announced that its RLUSD is now entering African markets. The launch is made possible through three major fintech partners: Chipper Cash, VALR, and Yellow Card. Each platform has a strong footprint in the region and brings direct access to millions of users. Ripple executives say the move is part of a broader plan to make RLUSD a trusted option for institutional clients worldwide. Rapid Growth Since Launch RLUSD debuted in late 2024 and has seen steady adoption across global financial ecosystems. According to DefiLlama, the token’s market capitalization has grown to $709.95 million as of Thursday. Ripple says this growth reflects strong demand from banks, exchanges, and payment providers that need a compliant and stable asset for digital transactions. Humanitarian Innovation in Kenya Ripple is also highlighting humanitarian use cases. In Kenya, RLUSD is powering pilot projects designed by Mercy Corps Ventures. These include blockchain-based insurance products that help communities manage drought and rainfall risks. Such programs highlight how digital assets contribute to climate resilience in areas often struck by extreme weather. Ripple says Africa provides an ideal testing ground for these innovations due to its large unbanked population and pressing economic challenges. Building a Global Network Ripple continues to expand RLUSD distribution channels. The stablecoin is now accessible through major global exchanges, including Gemini, Kraken, Bitso, Bitstamp, Bullish, LMAX, Uphold, Mercado Bitcoin, Independent Reserve, and CoinMENA. This growing network enables institutions worldwide to access RLUSD for payments, settlement, and collateral management. The company positions RLUSD as both a financial tool and a technological bridge between traditional banking and blockchain systems. Competing in a Crowded Stablecoin Market Africa already has widespread stablecoin adoption, with USDT commonly used for remittances and savings. However, RLUSD is being promoted as a regulated alternative, designed for institutional needs and compliant with strict global standards. Ripple argues that compliance features will differentiate RLUSD in regions where trust and security are major concerns. Transaction Activity Shows Momentum On-chain activity shows that RLUSD is gaining traction, but it remains far behind market leaders. Data from Artemis reveals that monthly transaction volumes rose from $119.6 million in July to $193.9 million in August. By comparison, established stablecoins on Ethereum and Tron handle billions in transactions each month. Ripple acknowledges the gap but sees strong growth potential as institutions adopt RLUSD. Executive Insights Ripple executives emphasize that RLUSD has already proved its value in enterprise use cases. Jack McDonald, SVP of Stablecoins at Ripple, said demand continues to grow across payments, tokenization, and collateral markets. Meanwhile, Ham Serunjogi, CEO of Chipper Cash, said RLUSD is “uniquely positioned to accelerate institutional blockchain adoption across Africa and beyond.” Both leaders emphasized that regulated stablecoins can play a decisive role in expanding financial access while strengthening global trade networks.