Ripple Expands RLUSD Stablecoin Reach Across Africa

Ripple has introduced its RLUSD stablecoin to African markets through wider partnerships with payment services.

The collaboration allows institutions and retail users across the continent to gain access to a regulated digital dollar.

Ripple Extends RLUSD to African Partners

Ripple, the US-based blockchain infrastructure firm, has expanded the availability of its Ripple USD (RLUSD) stablecoin to African users and institutions. Chipper Cash, VALR, and Yellow Card now provide access to the token across multiple jurisdictions.

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The decision reflects growing interest in stablecoins across Africa, where households and businesses face fluctuating local currencies and expensive cross-border transfers. Analysts note that demand for digital dollars has increased as many economies seek more efficient settlement methods.

RLUSD, launched in late 2024, has reached a market capitalization of more than $700 million, according to CoinGecko. Ripple issues the token through a trust company regulated by the New York Department of Financial Services, which the company argues ensures compliance with existing rules.

Mercy Corps Ventures began testing RLUSD in pilot programs in Kenya last April. The projects use smart contracts to provide drought and rainfall insurance, releasing funds when satellite data confirms extreme weather events.

These initiatives demonstrate potential applications of stablecoins beyond trading and transfers. Observers say climate-related finance could represent an additional growth area, particularly in regions vulnerable to environmental shocks. Whether these pilots scale remains uncertain, but they show how blockchain-based settlement systems can shorten delays in traditional insurance claims.

Regulatory Environment and International Reach

Analysts note that this launch reflects rising demand for dollar-backed assets in Africa and ongoing global debates about stablecoin oversight. Local markets face challenges such as volatile currencies, high remittance costs, and limited financial inclusion, which make digital dollars an increasingly relevant option.

Ripple continues to extend RLUSD to other regions. Exchanges such as Bitso, CoinMENA, and Mercado Bitcoin list the stablecoin, and the Dubai Financial Services Authority recently granted regulatory approval.

Remittances represent a significant market opportunity. The World Bank reports that sub-Saharan Africa has some of the world’s most expensive payment corridors, with fees often exceeding 8 percent. Stablecoins could reduce costs while improving access to dollar-based payments for businesses and households.