Yaliwe Mlambo, Chairperson of the United Africa Blockchain Association (UABA), highlights the transformative potential of blockchain technology to revolutionise gaming in Africa. Through her extensive work with policymakers, governments and communities, Mlambo advocates for the adoption of blockchain to enhance the gaming industry and improve the lives of African youth.
The value of blockchain
Mlambo describes blockchain as “the internet of value.” a powerful tool to incentivise players within the gaming industry. She shares an example from Zambia, where underprivileged children used blockchain for gaming, earning cryptocurrency rewards that they could exchange for money.
A key challenge in gaming is the lack of incentives for players. Mlambo explains that blockchain and cryptocurrency can add real value to gaming time. “We game all the time, but most often we don’t get incentivised for that. Blockchain crypto could actually add a lot of value to the gaming industry.” she says. By offering rewards, blockchain transforms gaming from a passive activity into a meaningful, potentially profitable pursuit. This shift could encourage more young people to view gaming not just as entertainment, but as a serious sport with tangible value. “These are underprivileged children who learned how to use the power of the internet, how to use blockchain technology, and how to use crypto to advance their lives.”, she explains.
UABA connecting communities
UABA’s role in promoting blockchain adoption is central to Mlambo’s vision. She explains that UABA is a nonprofit with a mission to improve lives through education. By connecting organisations, communities and governments, UABA fosters blockchain understanding through pilot projects and visibility studies. Mlambo emphasises that UABA’s efforts aim to empower communities to make informed decisions and embrace blockchain technology.
Future initiatives and community empowerment
Looking ahead, Mlambo sees gamified education as a key initiative. By incorporating blockchain into educational games, UABA seeks to engage young people while teaching them valuable skills. Many youth already use smartphones, creating an opportunity to introduce educational content through gaming. “Create programs that empower communities, empower young people, and teach them that gaming is not just something that you do to relax, it’s something that can be taken seriously.” she says. This approach aims to shift the perception of gaming from a luxury pastime to a valuable tool for personal and community development.
Blockchain holds immense potential for transforming the African gaming industry. Through education and community partnerships, UABA is working to unlock new opportunities for economic empowerment and education. By embracing blockchain, Africa’s youth can play an active role in a rapidly evolving digital economy, ensuring a brighter future for the continent. for the next AIBC Africa event where industry leaders and innovators come together to shape the future of gaming.
