Global crypto firms are intensifying efforts in Africa amid surging adoption. Blockchain.com is expanding into Ghana after reporting 700% growth in Nigeria. The region’s crypto activity rose 52% in 2025, reaching over $200 billion, driven by both retail use and institutional demand.
**Blockchain.com** has announced its expansion into Ghana, following a reportedly successful launch in neighboring Nigeria. The company, which offers exchange and brokerage services, cited a 700% growth rate in Nigeria as evidence of the region’s potential. Owen Odia, General Manager for Africa at Blockchain.com, stated, *“Our growth in Nigeria over the past year has demonstrated the immense potential for digital assets across the African region.”*
Users in Africa leverage cryptocurrencies for hedging against currency volatility, payments, remittances, and savings. Nigeria’s initial adoption was largely driven by a devaluation of the Naira, which fell over 70% against the U.S. dollar since 2021, making stablecoins like USDT and USDC a popular alternative. According to data from Chainalysis, Nigeria led sub-Saharan Africa with a total crypto value exceeding $92 billion last year.
South Africa followed with about $30 billion, Ethiopia ranked third, Kenya fourth, and Ghana fifth. Africa’s overall crypto activity surged by 52% in 2025, reaching over $205 billion in on-chain value, placing it third globally behind APAC and Latin America. A closer examination reveals that institutional activity is significant, particularly in South Africa where a more advanced regulatory framework exists.
Chainalysis noted that South Africa’s robust institutional activity is due to its regulatory framework enabling regional banks to explore crypto offerings. Bitcoin, USDT, and Ethereum are the top-traded assets across the region. Other nations like Nigeria, Kenya, and Rwanda are also pursuing regulatory clarity to further develop their local crypto sectors.
