Tether and UNODC Partner to Curb Crypto Crime in Africa

Source: CryptoTale Original Title: Tether and UNODC Partner to Curb Crypto Crime in Africa Original Link: Tether and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime announced a joint initiative on Jan. 9, 2026, to address rising crypto-related crime in Africa. The partnership focuses on cybersecurity education, digital asset protection, and support for victims of human trafficking across multiple countries. The effort aligns with UNODC’s Strategic Vision for Africa 2030 and responds to documented fraud and illicit finance risks.

Africa’s Growing Crypto Use Draws Criminal Attention

Africa is now one of the fastest-growing regions for crypto use, according to data shared by UNODC and its partners. But this rapid growth has also brought more exposure to scams, fraud, and organized cybercrime. Recently, Interpol seized around $260 million in illegal crypto and cash during coordinated operations in Kenya and other African countries.

These findings highlighted security gaps affecting everyday users, exchanges, and community groups. Consequently, UNODC identified digital asset crime prevention as a priority within its Strategic Vision for Africa 2030. Tether joined the initiative as part of efforts to support education, technical capacity, and victim-focused programs.

The partnership focuses on prevention rather than enforcement. Therefore, the work centers on public awareness, youth education, and direct assistance to affected populations. These measures aim to reduce vulnerabilities before financial harm occurs.

Education and Victim Support

The collaboration currently includes three structured initiatives, starting with Senegal. There, a multi-phase cybersecurity education program targets young people through learning sessions and a practical bootcamp. The program also includes a workshop by the Plan B Foundation, linked to Tether and the City of Lugano.

Following the training phase, participants receive coaching, mentorship, and micro-grants to develop project ideas. Organizers designed the program to connect technical skills with real-world security challenges. Notably, local authorities support the initiative as part of Senegal’s Digital New Deal agenda.

The second initiative spans several African countries, including Nigeria, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Uganda. Through this effort, selected civil society organizations receive funding to assist victims of human trafficking. The support covers safety services, help with recovery, and coordination with local groups.

The focus is on giving practical help rather than pushing for new policies. UNODC manages the coordination to make sure efforts fit within national systems. This way, assistance reaches communities already affected by online financial crime and exploitation.

Broader Scope Extends to Pacific Youth Awareness

Beyond Africa, the partnership also includes a youth-focused initiative in the Pacific region. In Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, universities now host student programs on digital fraud prevention. The University of Papua New Guinea and the University of Solomon Islands lead the effort.

Students take part in contests focused on using blockchain to improve financial access and help prevent crime. Rewards are given for ideas that offer real solutions to problems faced locally. The program was created to build awareness while promoting innovation within a guided academic environment.

Tether CEO Paolo Ardoino said working together is still crucial to protecting vulnerable groups. He explained that education and practical innovation give communities better tools to respond to exploitation risks. Similarly, Sylvie Bertrand, UNODC Regional Representative for West and Central Africa, emphasized digital assets’ growing role in development.

Bertrand added that cooperation between public institutions, private firms, and governments can strengthen digital skills and youth employability. According to her, secure digital systems also support transparency while limiting organized crime opportunities.

The partnership brings these goals together under UNODC’s Africa 2030 framework. Each initiative connects education, protection, and technology through region-specific programs.

Meanwhile, the partnership presents an organized way to tackle the risks tied to digital asset crime. The programs bring together cybersecurity training, support for victims, and youth-led innovation within a single approach. By working across different regions, Tether and UNODC aim to respond to known risks using focused and evidence-based actions.