Tether's Strategic Investment in Kotani Pay: Enhancing Financial Inclusion in Africa

On October 21, 2025, Tether, a leading entity in the digital asset industry, announced a strategic investment in Kotani Pay, a Crypto Asset Service Provider (CASP) focused on improving access to digital assets in Africa. This investment aims to facilitate seamless connections between Web3 users and local payment channels, thereby empowering individuals and businesses across the continent. Kotani Pay has established a significant presence in the African fintech landscape, providing tailored solutions to meet local market needs.

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The primary goal of Tether's investment is to enhance financial inclusion by lowering barriers to global financial participation. By leveraging blockchain technology, Kotani Pay aims to address long-standing challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and corporations in emerging markets, such as high transaction costs and limited access to global financial networks. The investment is expected to streamline access to digital assets and cross-border payment systems, enabling previously excluded businesses and individuals to engage directly with the global economy.

Tether backs Kotani Pay to improve cross-border paymentsAIMBIT Global Exchange Corp Announces Global Expansion PlanPave Bank, the first programmable bank operating in Georgia, has raised $39 millionRole of Technology in CSR: Building a Smarter, More Inclusive India

According to a Chainalysis report, Sub-Saharan Africa's crypto economy is expanding, with on-chain transaction volumes exceeding $205 billion between July 2024 and June 2025, reflecting a 52% year-on-year increase. Key markets like Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and Ethiopia are leading this growth, driven by retail usage and remittances. This trend indicates a shift in how people in these regions access and utilize financial tools, with cryptocurrency becoming increasingly integral to daily financial activities.

Tether backs Kotani Pay to improve cross-border payments

Paolo Ardoino, CEO of Tether, emphasized the importance of blockchain technology in unlocking financial freedom, stating, “At Tether, we believe that blockchain technology plays a critical role in unlocking financial freedom.” Felix Macharia, CEO and Co-founder of Kotani Pay, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting that the investment positions Kotani Pay to connect millions of Africans to the global financial system.

Tether backs Kotani Pay to improve cross-border payments

While the investment is poised to enhance financial inclusion, some critics argue that the reliance on cryptocurrencies may not address the underlying issues of financial literacy and infrastructure in many African countries. Concerns about the volatility of digital assets and their suitability for everyday transactions persist among skeptics.

Tether backs Kotani Pay to improve cross-border payments

The collaboration between Tether and Kotani Pay is expected to set a new benchmark for blockchain technology's role in transforming financial operations across Africa. Both companies are committed to scaling access to blockchain-based tools that promote efficiency, transparency, and inclusion, aiming to foster a more resilient digital economy on the continent.

Tether backs Kotani Pay to improve cross-border paymentsPave Bank, the first programmable bank operating in Georgia, has raised $39 millionFirm named digital governance company of the year GovTech AwardsRole of Technology in CSR: Building a Smarter, More Inclusive IndiaAIMBIT Global Exchange Corp Announces Global Expansion Plan

Tether's investment in Kotani Pay represents a significant step towards enhancing financial inclusion in Africa. By addressing the challenges faced by SMEs and individuals in accessing global financial networks, this partnership aims to empower underserved communities and facilitate broader participation in the digital economy.

Tether backs Kotani Pay to improve cross-border payments