Building Africa's Web3 Future: A $15mn boost for blockchain & AI talent

Fueled by a $15 million grant from the DFinity Foundation, the Olympus Accelerator Programme is making significant strides in empowering East Africa's Web3 developers. Collaborating with ICP Hub Kenya and Kotani Pay, the program aims to shift the narrative of Africa from being primarily consumers to creators of blockchain technology products. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Yvonne Kagondu, Co-Founder of ICP Hub Kenya, shed light on the initiative's mission and impact. Over the past year and three months, ICP Hub Kenya has been on a mission to equip young developers with the skills needed to build blockchain products. Through their education and marketing efforts, they have trained Web2 developers - individuals unfamiliar with blockchain and AI - on these emerging technologies. The focus now shifts to converting these creations into investable products and teams, a key objective of the Accelerator Programme. By providing mentorship and access to a decentralized platform, the program connects developers with investors and entrepreneurs globally. This network not only offers financial support but also invaluable mentorship to guide the growth of these budding businesses. Kagondu emphasized the importance of the right mindset and mentorship, stating that success is achievable with the right guidance, regardless of the initial funding amount. The decentralized nature of the platform enables teams to tap into a diverse pool of resources, fostering innovation and sustainability for blockchain endeavors. As the accelerator program progresses, success will be measured by the entrepreneurial mindset instilled in the cohort. Kagondu highlighted the value of building diverse teams with a blend of technical and business acumen, essential for navigating the startup landscape. By equipping these young entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and knowledge, the program aims to set them on a path towards sustainable success in the blockchain realm. Partnering with established entities like Totalipay and engaging with local and international collaborators, ICP Hub Kenya is committed to ensuring the holistic development of its cohorts. Through a multi-faceted approach encompassing technical, business, financial, and psychological aspects, the program aims to address the diverse needs of emerging entrepreneurs. By laying a strong foundation grounded in education and mentorship, the initiative seeks to shape a new generation of African innovators poised for success in the competitive Web3 arena.