![blockchain.jpg](https://steemitimages.com/DQmNXRHUHVrtdmDSXzek7Uobpv2hASGUkcRGCrTzDLxaR5L/blockchain.jpg)

According to reports, African countries - led by Ghana and South Africa - had the highest number of online searches for ‘blockchain’ and ‘bitcoin’ last year. 

Ben Onuoha, [ConsenSys](https://new.consensys.net/) Community Lead for Africa believes there are many other ways in which blockchain can help the continent accelerate into the future.

*‘Africa has a clean slate to develop highly evolved business models and a robust technological infrastructure,’* writes Ben in a recent article. *‘As a developing region, Africa can use blockchain to leapfrog antiquated systems, the same way it skipped over cumbersome, expensive landlines and moved straight to mobile phones.’*

He also points out: *‘Smartphone penetration is also on the rise and estimated to hit 50% by 2020, up from only 2% in 2010 (WEF). Africa is an early adopter rather than a follower and poised to embrace the blockchain.’*

# Read Ben’s full article here - [Why Africa’s Emerging Blockchain Movement is Growing So Rapidly](https://media.consensys.net/blockchain-month-in-africa-920945771100)