Btrust Acquires Qala to Boost Bitcoin Development in Africa

Btrust's Strategic Acquisition

Btrust, a non-profit organization co-founded by Jay-Z and Block CEO Jack Dorsey, has strategically acquired Qala, a Bitcoin talent company. This move aims to enhance Bitcoin development across Africa by transforming Qala into the Btrust Builders Program.

Advancing Bitcoin Development in Africa

The acquisition is designed to create a synergy between Btrust's financial resources and Qala's existing training framework. While Btrust had the necessary funding, it lacked the structural setup to cultivate African Bitcoin talent. Conversely, Qala had an effective system but struggled with resource sustainability as a non-revenue social enterprise. Previously, Qala depended on grants from entities such as Coinbase Giving and the Human Rights Foundation.

Leadership and Program Focus

Following the acquisition, key figures from Qala, including CEO Femi Longe and program manager Stephanie Titcombe, will lead the new Btrust Builders program. The program will emphasize open-source training, inviting senior African software developers to engage in Bitcoin and Lightning network development.

Btrust's Continued Commitment

Btrust's commitment to decentralizing Bitcoin development is further demonstrated by its sponsorship of events like the Africa Bitcoin Conference. The conference, set to take place in Ghana, underscores Btrust's mission to foster global Bitcoin development through strategic initiatives and collaborations.

Vision for the Future

With a pledge of 500 BTC from its founders, Btrust aims to support projects in both India and Africa, reflecting its broader vision to empower regional talent and decentralize Bitcoin's development landscape. This acquisition marks a significant step towards achieving those goals, highlighting a collaborative path forward for Bitcoin advancements in Africa.