Bitcoin and other digital currencies have been written off before, especially given price volatility, with the focus of many in the sector switching to the potential of the underlying blockchain technology, in use cases such as smart contracts.

Right now, though, Bitcoin is very much back, and increasingly relevant in Africa. Startups across the continent are adopting it to solve problems around making both international and local payments, overcoming challenges with local currencies, and as a means of investing funds. These startups are also increasingly the subject of interest from venture capital companies.