Africa Crypto Update Weekly Recap: Mastercard Collaboration with Circle, InVastor Learning Initiative in Kenya, Interpol Operation in Angola and Zambia

This week in Africa crypto update, payment processing powerhouse Mastercard revealed its initiative to broaden its alliance with Circle for worldwide digital transactions utilizing USDC. Similar to Tether USDT, USDC ranks among the most favored and enables affordable, immediate global value exchanges.

In Kenya, InVastor has introduced an educational initiative aimed at political influencers and decision-makers. Over recent years, Kenya has been progressing toward establishing regulatory transparency within the crypto space. The Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill (VASP) is currently under consideration in the parliament and may soon become law.

At the same time, the global law enforcement agency Interpol carried out a significant crackdown on illicit Bitcoin and cryptocurrency block rewards operations across the continent. Crypto mining demands substantial energy, and in regions prioritizing essential services like healthcare, operating a mining farm can be challenging.

Let’s delve into the stories capturing headlines across the continent this week:

Africa Crypto News: Mastercard Enhances Strategic alliance with Circle

Globally recognized credit and debit card service operator Mastercard has expanded its collaboration with Circle to facilitate transactions in the Middle East, Africa, and Eastern Europe.

This partnership allows Mastercard users in these areas to settle their transactions with USDC, which means they can purchase some of the leading Solana meme coins. The payment processor and card issuer harness their reliable global infrastructure for this endeavor.

Stablecoins provide a relatively secure method for managing crypto, as their values align with stable assets such as the USD and Euro. Mastercard stands to gain by forging connections between blockchain-native assets and traditional fiat systems, offering advantages to crypto users, including SOL ▲1.13% holders.

(Source: TradingView SOL USDT)

Dimitry Dosis, president of the Eastern Europe, Middle East, and Africa region, articulated the advantages of the partnership as follows:

“This is a pivotal move for Mastercard. Our strategic objective is to assimilate stablecoins into the financial mainstream by investing in infrastructure, governance, and collaborations to bolster this thrilling payment evolution from fiat to tokenized and programmable money. Through our enhanced strategic alliance with Circle, we are making substantial advancements to incorporate their innovative solutions within our global network.”

This announcement signifies a significant breakthrough for the blockchain industry, transitioning from its early image as a niche asset hub to broader mainstream acceptance.

EXPLORE: Top Meme Crypto token ICOs to Consider in 2025

Kenya Crypto News: InVastor Commits to Education Programs

The digital finance platform InVastor has announced an educational initiative specifically aimed at Kenyan lawmakers. The program provides members of the government at different levels with minimal amounts of crypto to include in their portfolios and instruction on managing digital assets, featuring some of the best cryptos to invest in, including BTC and ETH ▲1.96%.

InVastor’s initiative aims to enhance lawmakers’ understanding of crypto assets and foster the establishment of suitable regulations for the industry. Currently, Kenya’s parliament is deliberating a Virtual Asset Service Providers Bill (VASP), which would constitute the nation’s inaugural significant legislative measure concerning crypto.

Kenya’s approach to digital assets is evolving: from caution to leadership, supporting blockchain innovation, stablecoin development and exploring Bitcoin reserves.

With the National Policy on Virtual Assets and the Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASP) Draft Bill, we’re… pic.twitter.com/XQFPHMvqQ7

— Hon. William Kabogo (@honkabogo) July 10, 2025

CEO Chris Esukumo of InVastor emphasized Kenya’s pivotal role in the digital payments landscape and its potential for crypto expansion. Esukumo remarked that Kenya has demonstrated to the world how to surpass outdated systems with mobile money solutions and expects a similar leap forward with crypto.

Furthermore, Binance has been involved in stakeholder discussions regarding the VASP bill, highlighting Kenya’s ascending role as a crypto center.

EXPLORE: 20+ Upcoming Cryptos with Potential in 2025

Zambia and Angola Crypto News: Interpol Steps Up Against Scams in Zambia and Angola

Interpol has executed significant seizures aimed at crypto fraudsters and unauthorized operators throughout the continent, focusing particularly on Zambia and Angola to apprehend cybercriminals.

Authorities in Zambia dismantled a large-scale investment fraud scheme that swindled victims of roughly $300 million, leading to the detention of 15 suspects. Additionally, domain names and financial accounts were seized to avert further fraudulent activities.

In Angola, officials shut down around 45 illicit crypto mining ventures consuming electricity intended for underserved communities. Crypto miners encounter difficulties with energy use, as certain areas struggle to accommodate their requirements.

EXPLORE: 9+ Top High-Risk, High-Reward Cryptos for 2025

The post Africa Crypto Announcement Week in Review: Mastercard Partnership with Circle, InVastor Educational Initiative in Kenya, Interpol Actions in Angola and Zambia appeared first on 99Bitcoins.