Who is Mama Bitcoin?
Mama Bitcoin, also known as Bineta, has become an emblematic figure in Senegal’s cryptocurrency landscape. As the face behind Bleu comme la mer, she was the first retailer in Senegal—maybe even all of West Africa—to accept crypto for payments. But the story doesn’t just end with business; it’s her inspiring journey that resonates. She’s also the first in her family to read and write fluently, proving that breaking barriers is her thing.
A Journey from Bakery Dreams to Crypto Queen
Imagine wanting to open a bakery in a small fishing village but struggling to get a loan. That was the dilemma Bineta faced in Mbour, a quaint village 90 minutes from Dakar. Many paths led her to Bitcoin—from multi-level marketing schemes to a friend’s tip in Cameroon. It was a rollercoaster of ideas before Bitcoin came in like a superhero in a cape. She thought, “Why settle for a bakery when I can revolutionize an industry?”
Education Meets Innovation
With her curiosity ignited, Bineta spent hours absorbed in Bitcoin research. She wasn’t just looking for a quick way to make money; she saw Bitcoin as a revolutionary tool to empower communities. She remarked, “This kind of money will help overcome so many issues.” Her newfound understanding made her pivot from baking croissants to breaking norms in blockchain technology.
Bluing the Blockchain Waters: Bleu comme la mer
Fast forward to the establishment of Bleu comme la mer, which revolutionizes the fishing trade in Senegal. No more middlemen! Fishermen connect directly with consumers, streamlining the process and ensuring everyone gets a fair deal. Plus, they accept crypto payments—not just Bitcoin, but also Ethereum and Tezos. It’s like a seafood market meets the digital age, offering delicious catches like shrimp and squid, all for the crypto-loving community.
Tackling Skepticism and Inspiring Women
Despite the potential, skepticism looms large in Senegal regarding Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Mama Bitcoin is undeterred, aiming to get more women involved in this digital gold rush. At an early Bitcoin meetup in Dakar, with 20 participants, three were women. It might seem small, but it’s a start! With her energy and enthusiasm, Bineta is leading the charge, encouraging more women to explore blockchain technology.
The Bigger Vision
Bineta’s ambition doesn’t end with payments. She envisions a decentralized e-commerce platform where fishermen can log catches and consumers can trace the origins. It’s a smart move, especially in combating overfishing in West Africa’s fragile waters.
So there you have it. Mama Bitcoin isn’t just a name; it’s a movement. With her sights set on empowering women and redefining commerce in Senegal, she’s not just catching fish—she’s reeling in the future of finance.
