Ripple Executive Sees Stablecoins Shaping Africa’s Growing Digital Payments

TLDR

Table of Contents

Africa’s stablecoin adoption rate is 9.3 percent, highest in the world.
Ripple partners with Yellow Card, Chipper Cash, and VALR for RLUSD use.
Stablecoins help Africans send remittances and protect savings from currency drops.
Central banks are engaging with crypto firms to understand stablecoin usage.

Africa is emerging as a global leader in stablecoin adoption, driven by its use in cross-border payments and financial inclusion. Reece Merrick, Managing Director of Ripple for Middle East and Africa, highlighted this during a recent webinar with regional fintech partners.

According to Merrick, Africa has a 9.3 percent stablecoin adoption rate, the highest in the world. Many users leverage these digital assets for remittances and to safeguard savings from currency fluctuations.

Stablecoins Driving Cross-Border Payments

Stablecoins are becoming a preferred method for sending money across borders in Africa. “Many Africans rely on stablecoins to send or receive funds internationally without needing a U.S. dollar bank account,” Merrick said.

Africa is leading the world in real-world blockchain utility 🌍
With the world's highest stablecoin adoption rate at 9.3%, the region isn’t just speculating, it’s solving for cross-border trade and financial inclusion
I recently joined partners from @Absa, @YellowCard_App, and…
— Reece Merrick (@reece_merrick) February 25, 2026

Businesses also use stablecoins to pay for imports and services. The assets provide faster settlement and lower transaction costs compared to traditional banking methods. By offering predictable value, stablecoins help users avoid local currency volatility.

Ripple Expanding Partnerships in Africa

Ripple has partnered with regional firms such as Chipper Cash, Yellow Card, and VALR to enhance stablecoin utility. These partnerships allow Ripple USD (RLUSD) to be accessible and affordable for both individuals and businesses.

Merrick emphasized that Ripple aims to provide transparent and regulated stablecoin solutions. This approach is intended to support institutional adoption while maintaining compliance with local financial rules.

Central Banks Engaging with Crypto Firms

Ripple’s experience in Africa shows that regulators are increasingly communicating with crypto companies. This collaboration helps authorities understand the use of digital assets and stablecoins. Merrick noted that concerns over illegal activity are gradually diminishing as central banks engage with the sector.

Educational initiatives and accelerator programs are also part of Ripple’s efforts to strengthen the fintech ecosystem. The company works with local stakeholders to explore new digital payment solutions and blockchain technology applications.

Regional Growth and Future Outlook

Stablecoins are playing a growing role in everyday transactions across Africa. Merrick described them as a “payment rail” that makes remittances and trade settlements faster and cheaper.

Beyond Africa, Ripple is expanding collaborations with other regions. For example, the company recently partnered with UAE-based Zand bank to support both AEDZ and RLUSD. This strategy reinforces Ripple’s commitment to building global digital asset infrastructure.

With stablecoins gaining traction, Africa is positioned as a major market for digital payments. Ripple continues to work with local partners and regulators to support the safe and practical use of these assets.