Btrust

Over the past two editions, #BtrustDeveloperDay has brought together developers, designers, contributors, and builders from across the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Unfortunately, we won’t be hosting the event this year. We know many of you were looking forward to gathering again, and we’ll miss the opportunity to learn, connect, and build together.

We’re using this time to listen, reflect, and prepare for a bigger next chapter in 2027.

Thank you to everyone who has joined us, contributed, spoken, volunteered, and built alongside the community so far.

We can’t wait to welcome you back in 2027. More details are coming soon. Watch this space.

We are excited to be attending and speaking at

🎉

TABConf is a conference focused on Bitcoin, bringing together developers, researchers, and open-source contributors to share ideas, explore new technologies, and collaborate on building Bitcoin’s future.

Open-source development is at the heart of Bitcoin, and we’re looking forward to contributing to conversations on the tools, people, and communities shaping its ecosystem.

Catch our Head of Engineering, Kelvin Isievwore, and Btrust developer grantee, Itoro Ukpong Oluwasegun, on the main stage today.

🕦 11:30 am - Beyond the FFI Frontier: What It Actually Takes to Expose Rust Bitcoin Across Multiple Languages

Itoro will unpack the engineering challenges of making Rust-based Bitcoin wallet logic accessible across languages like Swift, Kotlin, Python, and Dart, including how developers can use UniFFI to build and distribute cross-platform SDKs

🕛 11:45 am - A New Centre of Gravity: Bitcoin Open Source Development in the Global South

Kelvin will explore how Bitcoin open-source development is becoming more geographically decentralized, with contributors in the Global Majority building communities, organizing conferences, mentoring developers, and becoming maintainers of open-source projects.

We’re looking forward to meeting fellow developers, open-source contributors, and members of the Bitcoin community, exchanging ideas, and exploring opportunities to build together.

See you there!

What does it take to build an ecosystem where developers in the Global Majority can do more than participate in Bitcoin, but help shape where it goes next?

In the final episode of season one of Btrust in Focus, Paul Eke sits down with Abubakar Nur Khalil, CEO of Btrust, to talk about the thinking behind Btrust, how the organization has evolved, and what it takes to build the foundations for a stronger Bitcoin ecosystem in the Global Majority.

They discuss the challenges of creating pathways for developers, building a team around a shared mission, and why Btrust sees its role as creating the conditions for others to build.

Abubakar also looks ahead at what Btrust is working towards: a stronger Bitcoin ecosystem where more developers from the Global Majority have the opportunity to build for the world, while Btrust continues to strengthen the foundations that make that possible.

Watch the final episode of Btrust in Focus here:

We’re excited to support the Nairobi 🇰🇪 edition of Hack4Freedom, happening from September 22nd to October 5th.

The two-week program will bring together women interested in Bitcoin development for hands-on learning, building, and connecting with developers and mentors from the ecosystem.

, Frankline Omondi,

, Sharon Nkatha and Brandon Odiwuor will also be joining the program and contributing to the sessions over the two weeks.

Huge thanks to Sekinah Ibrahim,

, Dada Devs, and everyone involved in making this happen and helping grow the pipeline of female Bitcoin open-source developers. 🧡

If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time to join us. Register here: https://app.evento.so/e/evt_thLRxQBL9AarUmp3?from=manage

Open-source Bitcoin development requires something most engineers can't easily give it: sustained, uninterrupted time.

For many developers, contributing to Bitcoin infrastructure has to compete with the job that pays the bills. Reading unfamiliar codebases, working through reviews, staying with a problem across multiple iterations, all of that takes a kind of focus that is hard to find in the margins of a full-time job, and this is why funding exists.

In 2025, Btrust awarded more than $2 million in grants, with 39.7% going directly to developers working on open-source Bitcoin infrastructure. Across the year, 18 grantees contributed to 15 open-source projects, collectively merging 222 pull requests and making 475 code reviews across the Bitcoin stack.

However, funding is only useful if developers know how to access it. That means understanding what kinds of work can be supported, what funders are actually evaluating when they read an application, and which program fits where you are right now in your contribution journey.

We put together a practical guide that answers all of it. It covers what Bitcoin open-source funding looks like, the difference between grants, fellowships, cohorts and project funding, what to have ready before you apply, what makes an application stand out, and where to start if you are still building your contribution record.

If you have been thinking about making the transition from part-time contributor to full-time open-source developer, this is where to start.

Read the full guide here: https://blog.btrust.tech/how-bitcoin-developers-can-get-funding-for-open-source-work

What if receiving bitcoin could be as simple as sharing an email address?

Today, receiving bitcoin often means sharing a long, difficult-to-remember address. Some payment addresses also depend on a website or server staying online.

BIP-353 offers a simpler option. It lets people use an easy-to-remember name, such as [email protected], to receive bitcoin. A wallet can use that name to find the right payment details, whether the payment is made through Lightning⚡ or directly on the Bitcoin network.

In our latest article,

explains how BIP-353 could make bitcoin payments easier to share and more reliable, without requiring a payment server to run all the time.

Read the full article on the Btrust blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/bip-353-a-more-reliable-protocol-level-way-to-share-bitcoin-payment-details

In this episode of Btrust in Focus, Paul sits down with

, convener of BitDevs NBO 🇰🇪, to discuss the journey of building Nairobi's Bitcoin developer community and the impact it continues to have across Kenya's growing Bitcoin ecosystem.

From its early days of searching for meeting spaces and support to becoming a community that has produced contributors, founders, and builders, Simon shares lessons on community building, open-source development, mentorship, and the importance of creating spaces where people can learn and grow together.

The conversation also explores Simon's work in Bitcoin mining, his contributions to Stratum V2, and how initiatives such as

have helped deepen technical engagement within the community. Watch the full conversation here:

What does it take to go from learning about Bitcoin to creating pathways for others to contribute?

In the first episode of Btrust in Focus, Paul Eke sits down with

, founder of

, to discuss his journey from overcoming imposter syndrome to helping build one of the most active Bitcoin development ecosystems in Brazil 🇧🇷 and the wider Latin America region.

The conversation explores the growth of Vinteum, the expansion of BitDevs communities, the importance of mentorship, and why creating opportunities for new contributors remains one of the most important investments the Bitcoin ecosystem can make.

Watch the full conversation on our YouTube channel:

Could quantum computers one day threaten Bitcoin’s security, and what would it take to prepare?

The answer is not as simple as adopting new cryptography. Every option comes with trade-offs for transaction size, fees, storage, network performance and decentralization.

In our latest article, Btrust grantee Sulaiman Aminu Barkindo explains the risk, assesses the leading post-quantum options and looks at how Bitcoin could move forward carefully.

Read the full article on the Btrust blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/quantum-computing-and-bitcoin-understanding-the-risks-the-trade-offs-and-the-path-forward

A big thank you to the

team for featuring our Developer Education Grants in this week's edition of the Financial Freedom Report. 🧡

Check out past editions and subscribe to get the latest updates here: https://hrf.org/program/financial-freedom/financial-freedom-reports

Bitcoin needs more contributors from more places, and that starts with making technical education more accessible.

Through our Education Grants, we're supporting programs that provide mentorship, technical training, and pathways that help developers move from learning to meaningful open-source contribution.

Applications are open year-round for initiatives focused on Bitcoin open-source development, developer education, mentorship, and contributor pathways.

Learn more and apply here: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/education

What does it take to grow the Bitcoin open-source ecosystem?

Behind every contribution, project, program, and community is a story of curiosity, persistence, collaboration, and the people creating opportunities for others to build.

Btrust in Focus is a new conversation series exploring the people behind Btrust's mission and the broader Bitcoin open-source ecosystem.

Through conversations with builders, educators, community leaders, program operators, ecosystem partners, and members of the Btrust team, we explore the journeys, challenges, lessons, and experiences behind the work of growing Bitcoin.

Across nine episodes, you'll hear from people building products, supporting developers, strengthening communities, advancing Bitcoin education, and creating pathways for the next generation of open-source contributors.

The first episode premieres next week, with new episodes dropping every Friday.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel and turn on notifications so you don't miss an episode: https://www.youtube.com/@btrust_tech

Last week, we had the pleasure of sponsoring and presenting at the Genesis Workshop hosted by OSGuild in Mauritius 🇲🇺.

Two of our developer grantees,

and

, joined the workshop to share their knowledge and experiences with the local community.

On day 1, Sy introduced participants to the fundamentals of bitcoin, covering the basics of how it works, and mining ⛏️.

Chuks ended the day with a session on the Lightning Network⚡, explaining how it enables fast, low-cost bitcoin payments and the technology that makes it possible.

On day 2, they joined a panel discussion to share their journeys into Bitcoin open-source development, offering practical advice and encouragement to developers looking to contribute to the ecosystem.

Across the two days, participants took part in technical presentations, thoughtful discussions, and the interactive

LARP, making for an engaging and collaborative learning experience.

A huge thank you to Sadiq Rabiu and the OSGuild team for organizing such a fantastic event.

We're grateful to have been part of it and look forward to supporting more initiatives that help grow the Bitcoin open-source community.

BitDevs is a space for asking questions, exchanging ideas, and learning alongside others who share your curiosity.

These discussion-led meetups bring together developers, designers, researchers, writers, students, and people from many other backgrounds.

Participants examine new proposals, challenge assumptions, share different perspectives, and learn from one another. You don’t need to be technical or have all the answers to take part.

Over time, these conversations can lead to deeper knowledge, new collaborations, research, projects, and contributions across the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Our latest article explains what happens at a BitDevs meetup, why these communities matter, and how you can get involved.

Read the full article on our blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/bitdevs-explained-what-to-expect-and-how-to-get-involved

At Btrust, we believe a stronger Bitcoin open-source ecosystem starts with better developer education.

Developers need structured learning, mentors, and communities that help them grow from learners into contributors.

We’re excited to announce the first round of 2026 Bitcoin Developer Education Grant recipients. 🚀

This round, we’re awarding $904,000 across five education initiatives: • Hack4Freedom by

• Summer of Bitcoin •

•

• nostr:nprofile1qqsgkt24wdkaksa8exnxgy6tmzs42tra8g30mvplcmk3eqar0z30rxgpremhxue69uhkummnw3ez6ur4vgh8wetvd3hhyer9wghxuet59uqjxamnwvaz7tmwdaehgu3dwejhy6txd9jkgtnhv4kxcmmjv3jhytnwv46z7qgawaehxw309ahx7um5wghxy6t5vdhkjmn9wgh8xmmrd9skctch70m49 & B4OS

Together, these programs are helping developers across Africa and the Global Majority build technical skills, contribute to open-source Bitcoin projects, and become the next generation of maintainers, educators, and full-time Bitcoin developers.

From hackathons and fellowships to study cohorts, internships, mentorship, and long-term developer support, each program creates meaningful pathways into Bitcoin open source.

Read more about the programs we're supporting: https://blog.btrust.tech/announcing-the-first-round-of-2026-bitcoin-developer-education-grant-recipients

Btrust Education Grants are open year-round to initiatives advancing Bitcoin developer education, mentorship, and open-source contribution across Africa and the Global Majority.

Learn more and apply here: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/education

For many developers, the first step into Bitcoin open source is often a meetup, workshop, hackathon, conference talk, or technical session.

These events create entry points for curious developers, connect new builders with mentors and peers, and give contributors a platform to share their work and find collaborators.

We’re excited to announce the first batch of 2026 Btrust event grant recipients. 🚀

This round, we are supporting eight events: •

2026 •

Lightning Developer Bootcamps •

Nairobi & Seoul 2026 • Code & Chain Senegal by Bitnob • The Genesis Workshop by OSGuild • Dakar Bitcoin Days IV • DevFest Kaduna 2026

Learn more about the recipients here: https://blog.btrust.tech/introducing-the-first-batch-of-2026-btrust-event-grants

Btrust event grants are open to events, conferences, bootcamps, workshops, hackathons, and technical gatherings growing the Bitcoin open-source ecosystem.

Learn more and apply here: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/event

We're excited to support the Genesis Workshop in Mauritius 🇲🇺, a two-day hands-on Bitcoin and open-source workshop organized by OSGuild in collaboration with BitDevs Mauritius.

Designed for developers, students, and curious builders, the workshop introduces participants to open-source culture, Bitcoin development, and real-world contribution pathways through practical, mentor-led sessions.

We're also excited to have two of our developer grantees,

and@npub1zm2dg6fjl8aw0rcmhhc8kcdax6nzmsvvdwxcwc9upnvctl5vvwlslpf260, joining the workshop as speakers, sharing their experience and helping guide the next generation of Bitcoin open-source contributors.

If you're in Mauritius, don't miss this opportunity to get started.

🔗 Learn more and register to attend here: https://workshop.osguild.dev

Lightning⚡ can make bitcoin payments fast and low cost, but building a Lightning-enabled app from scratch can still feel like a lot.

There are channels to open, liquidity to manage, invoices to create, payments to track, and events to handle. LDK Node makes that path more practical by packaging the hard infrastructure choices into a smaller, production-ready API.

In our latest blog, 👩‍💻 Rita Anene walks through building a working Lightning node in Rust 🦀, step by step: connecting to a peer, opening a channel, handling the ChannelReady event, receiving and sending BOLT11 payments, creating and paying BOLT12 offers, and sending a spontaneous payment without an invoice.

It is a hands-on starting point for developers who understand Bitcoin and want to begin building on Lightning, without needing to learn every layer of the protocol first.

Read the full article here: https://blog.btrust.tech/getting-started-with-ldk-node-building-a-lightning-node-in-rust

Getting your first pull request merged is a milestone, but it is rarely the point where the journey becomes easier.

If anything, it marks the beginning of deeper learning, greater responsibility, and continued contribution.

In this article, we spoke with our Head of Engineering Kelvin Isievwore and two long-term developer grantees, Abubakar Sadiq Ismail and Enigbe Ochekliye, about what really changes after that first merge.

From navigating code reviews to finding your place within an open-source project, they reflect on the lessons that stayed with them long after their first contribution was accepted.

Read the full article on our blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/what-happens-after-your-first-merged-pr

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We’re excited to announce the Q2, 2026 Btrust developer grant recipients. 🚀

Seven Bitcoin open-source developers were awarded grants last quarter, including three starter grant recipients and four long-term open-source cohort members.

The Btrust starter grant supports software engineers who are ready to contribute full-time to open-source Bitcoin development. It gives recipients the time, mentorship, and financial support they need to explore a focused area of Bitcoin open source, make meaningful contributions, and grow into long-term contributors.

Q2, 2026 starter grantees are: • Jemimah Nagasha working on Polar ⚡ • Oyindamola Oladapo working on Rust-Payjoin and the Payjoin Development Kit • Yankho Ngolleka working on

The Btrust Open-Source Cohort provides long-term support to established Bitcoin open-source contributors. Members receive funding, mentorship, and peer support to deepen their work on important Bitcoin open-source projects and build long-term careers in the ecosystem.

Q2, 2026 long-term grantees are: • Abiodun Awoyemi working on Bitcoin Dev Kit and BDK-TX • Ojok Emmanuel Nsubuga working on BlueWallet • Jamal ERRAKIBI working on rust-bitcoin, rust-secp256k1, and cryptographic performance • Brandon Odiwuor Odiwuor working on Bitcoin Core CI with CTest and CDash

Learn more about the recipients and what they’re working on in the blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/announcing-q2-2026-btrust-developer-grant-recipients

Applications for Btrust developer grants are open year-round, with new grantees announced quarterly. If you’re a developer looking to contribute to Bitcoin open-source projects, we encourage you to apply.

Learn more about Btrust developer grants and explore other Btrust grants here: https://www.btrust.tech/grants

Yesterday, Peter Tyonum took the stage at Bitcoin Mastermind in Cotonou 🇧🇯, to share how Btrust is helping grow the next generation of Bitcoin open-source engineers.

His talk explored the work we've been doing over the past few years to identify talent, provide technical education, and support developers building Bitcoin.

He also shared how open-source development is growing across the Global Majority and why investing in local talent matters for bitcoin's future.

Thank you to the #BMM2026 team for creating space for these important discussions. ⚡

#BMM26

Behind every active Bitcoin open-source contributor is a system that helped them get there, one that helped them discover Bitcoin, develop the skills to work on it, and find a place within the open-source ecosystem.

Supporting that system across the Global Majority is what Btrust grants are designed to do.

For a long time, open-source Bitcoin development has not reflected the full range of people Bitcoin is meant to serve.

That gap was never about ability. It was about access, to learning paths, technical communities, mentors, and funding.

Since 2021, Btrust has been working to change that through grants, mentorship, and education programs for developers from Africa and the Global Majority.

👩‍💻 Rita Anene, Jemimah Nagasha, and Enigbe Ochekliye are three grantees from across Africa who found their way into serious Bitcoin open-source work through that system.

Three different backgrounds. Three different paths. One shared commitment to building.

Read the full story of how they got started and are shaping Bitcoin's future: https://blog.btrust.tech/from-builders-to-leaders-meet-the-african-women-shaping-bitcoins-future

Two weeks ago, we brought our developer grantees together for an internal retreat. It was a chance to step away from the day-to-day activities, connect in person, and spend time together as a community, not just a network of individual contributors.

We kicked things off with a look at the state of the Btrust developer ecosystem, where we are today, the progress we've made, and the gaps we're still working to close.

From there, grantees shared the projects they've been working on, followed by technical deep dives into the challenges, blockers, and breakthroughs shaping their work.

We wrapped up with roadmap alignment, ensuring everyone left with a shared understanding of where we're headed and how their work contributes to the bigger picture.

Open-source development can often be a solitary journey. Bringing the community together, even for a day, created space to learn from one another, exchange ideas, strengthen relationships, and leave inspired to keep building.

Here's a look back at the day. 🧡

Before

Nairobi 🇰🇪 kicked off, we brought together Btrust developer grantees and team members for a retreat at Node NBO.

With many of our grantees already in Nairobi for bitcoin++, it felt like the perfect opportunity to spend a day together, connecting, sharing progress, aligning on priorities, and strengthening the relationships that make our ecosystem what it is.

For many of the grantees and some of our newer team members, this was the first time meeting in person after months (and in some cases years) of collaborating online.

The day featured project showcases, technical deep dives, conversations around challenges and breakthroughs, ecosystem updates, roadmap discussions, and a look ahead at what we hope to achieve in the second half of the year.

We also made time for some friendly competition and fun along the way.

One unexpected highlight was an impromptu visit to the Gridless offices.

As fellow tenants at Node NBO, the team welcomed us into their space, where Erik Hersman walked the grantees through some of the work they're doing to help decentralize bitcoin mining⛏️ through their mining operations across Africa.

It sparked great conversations around energy, infrastructure, and the role African builders can play in strengthening the bitcoin ecosystem.

Perhaps most importantly, the retreat gave us a chance to celebrate progress, exchange ideas, and strengthen the community behind the work.

A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the day meaningful. 🧡

Africa is not waiting for the future of bitcoin to be built elsewhere, we're building it ourselves.🚀

That was one of the strongest themes throughout the inaugural Bitcoin Nairobi Conference 🇰🇪, a gathering of developers, educators, entrepreneurs, community leaders, policymakers, and builders working to strengthen bitcoin adoption and innovation across the continent.

We're proud that some members of the Btrust community contributed to these important conversations.

On day 1, our communications lead,

, joined the bitcoin and media panel alongside

, CJ Kelly, and Alfonce Ouma, moderated by Blessing Ekong from Librería de Satoshi. The discussion explored the role of storytelling, education, and media in helping more people understand bitcoin and its impact.

Also on day 1, Ojok Emmanuel working on BlueWallet, delivered a talk on hardware wallet security for Africa, sharing practical insights on self-custody and why secure bitcoin ownership matters for African users.

On day 2, our head of engineering, Kelvin Isievwore, delivered a keynote on decentralizing Bitcoin development, highlighting the importance of a globally distributed Bitcoin ecosystem and how Btrust is supporting open-source contributors and creating pathways for developers across Africa and the Global Majority.

Later, Btrust grantee Simon joined the building on Bitcoin panel, exchanging ideas with fellow builders and exploring how developers can continue expanding Bitcoin's capabilities.

Beyond these sessions, the conference featured rich discussions on bitcoin education, open-source development, human rights, financial inclusion, design, mining, entrepreneurship, circular economies, and community building, demonstrating that Africa is not just participating in the Bitcoin ecosystem, but actively shaping its future.

Thank you to the Bitcoin Nairobi Conference team for bringing together such a vibrant community of builders and thinkers, and congratulations on a successful first edition.🎉

We recently had the pleasure of supporting

Nairobi 🇰🇪, the first bitcoin++ conference in Africa and the first-ever open source edition.

Over three incredible days, we saw developers, researchers, educators, and builders come together to explore Bitcoin, Lightning, privacy, mining, open-source development, developer tooling, financial infrastructure, and the future of building on Bitcoin. It was inspiring to see so many ideas turn into working projects tackling real-world challenges.

We're especially proud of the strong representation from our community, with members speaking across the conference and teams building projects that earned recognition across multiple hackathon categories.

A huge thank you to

and the entire bitcoin++ team for bringing this milestone event to Africa, as well as the speakers, mentors, judges, volunteers, sponsors, and every attendee who made it such a success.

We're excited to see the projects, collaborations, and conversations that started here continue long after the conference.

See you next year! 🚀

The final day of

Nairobi 🇰🇪 brought together developers, educators, and builders for a full day of talks, workshops, hackathon presentations, and community discussions.

Sessions explored a wide range of topics, including bitcoin mining, Lightning payments, privacy, mobile money integration, and open-source development.

The workshop track offered hands-on learning opportunities, with Abdullahi Yunus leading an L402 workshop on using Lightning for API authentication and payments, while Sonkeng Maldini demonstrated how developers can send and receive Silent Payments using Bitcoin Dev Kit tooling.

Several Btrust community members took the stage throughout the day, including Simon, Abdullahi Yunus, Muhammad Shehu, Sonkeng Maldini, Michael Ariwaodo, Ojok Emmanuel, and

, sharing insights on open-source development, privacy, Lightning, mining, and community building.

The afternoon featured the hackathon finals, where teams showcased innovative projects spanning developer tooling, financial infrastructure, privacy, and open-source maintenance.

The event concluded with the hackathon awards, celebrating the builders and projects that stood out during two days of intensive hacking and collaboration.

90 builders. 48 hours. Multiple ideas brought to life. 🚀

The

open source edition hackathon showcased what happens when builders are given the opportunity to collaborate, experiment, and ship.

From cross-border payments and open-source tooling to Bitcoin infrastructure, Nostr applications, and financial inclusion solutions, the quality of projects was exceptional.

As sponsors of the Best Contribution to Open Source and Solve Open Source Contribution Spam challenge tracks, we were happy to recognize:

🏆 UTXOracle BTC Calculator by Parrish for best contribution to open source challenge.

🏆 Filter by John Osezele, and Core-Gate by Aisha Omar & Mary Gathoni, joint winners for the open source contribution spam challenge.

Congratulations as well to the overall winners: 🥇 WestToEast by Mouhamadou Kouta, which enables cross-border mobile money payments powered by Bitcoin and Lightning⚡

🥈 Robin by Chris Oketch and Fidel Otieno, helping prospective Bitcoin open-source contributors find the right path before opening a PR

🥉 nairobi2, a permissionless ride-sharing platform with Bitcoin-based Sybil resistance

And special recognition to the category winners and honorable mentions, including Hodlr, LNpesa, Pontswap, Dishi Fresh, PoWR System, Zaptip, SiriScore, MindfulSats, and Tando's Ark for pushing the boundaries of what's possible with open-source technology.

Read our full recap for a breakdown of the winning projects, the builders behind them, and why we're excited about what's being built across Africa and beyond: https://blog.btrust.tech/celebrating-the-builders-of-the-bitcoin-open-source-edition-hackathon

Day 2 of

Nairobi 🇰🇪 kept the momentum going with a mix of technical deep dives, design conversations, and discussions about the future of bitcoin adoption.

The day explored how bitcoin can become more accessible and usable across different contexts, from Lightning⚡ as bitcoin's translation layer and cross-platform wallet development, to open bitcoin mining and building better on and off-ramp experiences.

There were also conversations around product design, the role of African designers in shaping bitcoin's future, and how more women across the continent are contributing to and reimagining Bitcoin innovation.

We're especially proud of our grantees who took the stage, including John Osezele, who shared insights on building cross-platform bitcoin wallets with Flutter and BDK-Dart, and Tobechi Chukwuleta, who spoke about extending BTCPay Server through plugins while maintaining the integrity of the core project.

Meanwhile, hackers continued building throughout the day, refining their projects, collaborating with mentors, and turning ideas into working solutions ahead of the Hackathon Expo.

Still buzzing from

Nairobi 🇰🇪, the first-ever conference in Africa, and the first open-source edition.

Day one was packed with incredible sessions that explored what it really means to build, contribute to, and sustain open-source software. From practical advice on getting started in Bitcoin open source and becoming a better code reviewer, to discussions on making software more hackable and user-modifiable, there was something for everyone, regardless of where they are in their journey.

We also dove into the technical side of Bitcoin and Lightning, exploring topics like improving Lightning infrastructure security, enhancing privacy in Taproot transactions, modern testing and fuzzing techniques in Bitcoin Core, and implementing features such as Replace-By-Fee in Lightning applications.

AI was another major theme throughout the day, with speakers examining both the opportunities and trade-offs of using AI in open-source development. Conversations ranged from how AI can support contributors to the cognitive costs that come with relying too heavily on these tools, and what that means for the future of open source.

There were also important discussions around building technology for African realities, closing the gap between contributor and founder, improving payment experiences across the continent, and exploring emerging technologies like Nostr and secure enclaves.

Proud to see several Btrust grantees and team members take the stage, including Sulaiman Aminu Barkindo, Abiodun Awoyemi, Kelvin Isievwore, Abdullahi Yunus, Frankline Omondi, and 👩‍💻 Rita Anene, sharing their work and contributing to these important conversations.

And that was just day one. Stay tuned for updates from the following days.

The countdown is on.⏳

In less than two days,

Nairobi 🇰🇪 kicks off, marking the first-ever conference in Africa and the first open source edition of the series.

As the title sponsor, we're excited to be part of this milestone moment for the Bitcoin ecosystem.

We'll be in Nairobi alongside developers, researchers, and open-source contributors from around the world, sharing ideas, learning from one another, and building the future of Bitcoin.

If you're attending, come find us, say hello, and join the conversation.

See you in Nairobi. 🚀

We had such an incredible time at the Freedom Tech Summit ahead of

🇨🇿.

A huge thank you to Lea Petrasova and the entire team for creating a space where builders, developers, and freedom technology enthusiasts can come together to learn, collaborate, and exchange ideas.

We're leaving with new insights, meaningful connections, and plenty of inspiration for the work ahead. 🚀

We're heading to Nairobi 🇰🇪 for

open source edition, happening June 17–19.

We're excited to join developers, contributors, and builders from across the global Bitcoin ecosystem for three days of talks, workshops, hackathons, and networking.

If you'll be in Nairobi and would like to attend the conference, we're giving away a number of tickets.

Here's how to participate: • Join the BitDevs Nairobi or the Btrust Builders Discord • Check the general channel for the giveaway details

We'll be selecting a few community members to receive conference tickets.

See you in Nairobi! 🚀

Earlier today Abubakar Sadiq Ismail walked us through a demo of the Bitcoin Core fee rate estimator Ul and the new mempool fee rate diagram (v31) was presented, showing ongoing work on making Bitcoin Core fee estimator design and proposal to reduce its over estimation and increases accuracy.

If you're interested in the details or want to contribute, you can check out the work ongoing work on GitHub: https://github.com/bitcoin/bitcoin/pull/34075

Explore the live fee estimation stats here: https://bitcoincorefeerate.com

On June 10th, Abubakar Sadiq Ismail will be speaking at the Freedom Tech Summit in Prague 🇨🇿.

The Freedom Tech Summit is a gathering of developers, builders, hackers, and freedom technology enthusiasts exploring the future of open-source and decentralized systems.

Abubakar will be presenting Bitcoin Core Fee Rate Estimator U.I demo. The session will feature: • A demonstration of the Bitcoin Core Fee Rate Estimator and fee estimation benchmarks • A demo of the Cluster Mempool Fee Rate Diagram UI

Location📍: Hotel Duo, Prague West Room Time ⏰: 12:10pm

If you'll be at the conference, be sure to stop by and catch the session.

Learn more about the conference here: https://freedomtechsummit.com

Last week, the Btrust team had the privilege of attending the Oslo Freedom Forum, joining builders, activists, technologists, and advocates from around the world in conversations about freedom, human rights, and open technologies.

Our CEO,

, took the stage during the closing panel of the Freedom Tech Track alongside Anaïse Kanimba,

, and

to discuss one of the most important questions in the Bitcoin ecosystem today: How do we make bitcoin practical for everyday people?

A key theme throughout the discussion was Africa's growing role in Bitcoin adoption. Across the continent, people are already using Bitcoin for payments, savings, financial inclusion, and economic empowerment, demonstrating real-world use cases at scale.

The conversation explored how builders, entrepreneurs, and advocates can continue creating tools that reduce barriers to access, expand freedom, and make bitcoin more useful in people's daily lives.

Watch the full discussion here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Q-7xMYnMXfc?t=12208

A huge thank you to the nostr:nprofile1qqs0rxy6jmt44guxkny8z4pkym9mxckqxfytygxuntjn6l80hj409sgpzdmhxue69uhky6t5wd6xzcmt9eshqup0qyfhwumn8ghj7ur4wfcxcetsv9njuetn9uq3samnwvaz7tmrvyhx7unpdenk2urfd3kzuer9wchshxjrvw team for curating such an impactful space for dialogue, learning, and collaboration.

The Btrust team is heading to Prague 🇨🇿

Kelvin Isievwore,

, Itoro Ukpong Oluwasegun, Abubakar Sadiq Ismail and Oghenovo Usiwoma will be attending the Freedom Tech Summit,

, and BTCPay Day from June 10-14.

Across these events, they'll be joining builders, entrepreneurs, open-source contributors, educators, and advocates from around the world who are working to advance freedom through technology.

We're excited to connect with the global Bitcoin ecosystem and contribute to conversations around open-source development, financial empowerment, digital sovereignty, privacy, and censorship-resistant technologies.

If you'll be in Prague for the events, we'd love to connect.

On June 2nd,

will be hosting the Freedom Tech Track at the 2026 Oslo Freedom Forum, bringing together builders, founders, and advocates exploring the role of technology in advancing freedom around the world.

Our CEO,

, is one of the featured speakers and will be joining the panel on bitcoin adoption in practice.

He’ll be speaking alongside: • Anaïse Kanimba, director & founder, Africa Bitcoin Institute •

, founder & CEO, nostr:nprofile1qqswq087qywczsjtkc9p960tpjcvn35gcdr39smefsr49cr33vmfausppemhxue69uhkummn9ekx7mp0qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7qgdwaehxw309a38yc3wd9hj734nsuz • nostr:nprofile1qqsztyptzz555j2t50ldfy7jzj8z2zzegma30erw7zcq9p9wfacrf4qppemhxue69uhkummn9ekx7mp0qythwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnwdaejuum0vd5kzmp0qyfhwumn8ghj7ur4wfcxcetsv9njuetn9ujulzqd, co-founder, nostr:nprofile1qqs97ekh6cxykm34l0m5ddrlymhj9rxrys3jemtf90psy3nysum0lkcpz4mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfduhsz9mhwden5te0wfjkccte9ec8y6tdv9kzumn9wshszrnhwden5te0dehhxtnvdakz78uh2ax

📍 Oslo Konserthus, Deep Dive Stage ⏰ June 2nd, 5:45pm

This is one session you won’t want to miss.

Check out the Freedom Tech Track speaker lineup and schedule here: https://oslofreedomforum.com/event/oslo-freedom-forum-2026/freedom-tech-at-the-oslo-freedom-forum

The Btrust team is heading to Norway 🇳🇴

,

, Peter Tyonum, Abubakar Sadiq Ismail and Oghenovo Usiwoma will be on ground at the 2026 Oslo Freedom Forum, by

, happening from June 1st to 3rd.

They will be joining activists, technologists, innovators, and freedom advocates from around the world for important conversations around human rights, financial freedom, digital rights, and censorship-resistant technology.

We’re excited to connect with builders, thinkers, and fellow advocates exploring how technology can help protect and empower communities where it matters most.

If you’ll be attending #OsloFreedomForum, we’d love to connect.

Nagasha's path into Bitcoin open source is anything but ordinary. She began her career as a civil engineer, explored technology on the side, and followed her curiosity into a completely new world.

That curiosity led her to BitDevs Kampala 🇺🇬, the Btrust Builders program, and eventually to a full-time role contributing to Polar.

In our latest grantee spotlight, she shares how the journey unfolded, what she learned along the way, and why Bitcoin has room for people from many different backgrounds.

If you have ever wondered how people make the jump into Bitcoin open source, this is one story you will want to read.

Check out the blog here: https://blog.btrust.tech/how-curiosity-led-me-from-civil-engineering-to-bitcoin-open-source-contribution/

This past Saturday, we had the pleasure of attending the soft launch of Node NBO.🎉

The space brings together people working across AI, energy and freedom technology under one roof, creating room for new ideas and collaborations to emerge.

Our CEO,

, joined the launch and shared a few thoughts on the opportunity ahead.

Huge congratulations to the Node NBO team for bringing this vision to life.

We’re super excited to be one of the tenants and to have a home in Kenya 🇰🇪.

More details about our space coming soon.

Learn more about Node NBO here: https://nodenbo.com/index.html

Lightning⚡ is best known as a network for fast bitcoin payments. But what if the same infrastructure could also carry private messages?

That’s the idea behind onion messages🧅. They rely on onion encryption, a technique where data is wrapped in multiple layers of encryption, like layers of an onion. As the message travels through the network, each node removes just one layer, learning only where the message came from and where it should go next. No single node ever sees the full route or the original sender and final recipient.

In this article, Abdullahi Yunus explores how onion messages work, how they differ from traditional payment routing, and how they’re being implemented in LND. The piece also looks at why this small protocol change could turn Lightning into more than just a payment network.

If you’re curious about how Lightning might evolve into a private communication layer, read the full blog to learn more: https://blog.btrust.tech/onion-messages-lightnings-private-messaging-layer/

Yesterday BitDevs Addis Ababa 🇪🇹 hosted its inaugural meetup, bringing together 75 developers and Bitcoin enthusiasts for the community’s first Socratic Seminar. 🚀

The session featured a lively discussion, led by Yeabsra Henok, exploring recent developments in the Bitcoin ecosystem. The level of engagement in the room made it clear that there is strong interest among developers in Addis to better understand Bitcoin from a technical perspective.

If you're a developer in Addis Ababa curious about Bitcoin development, BitDevs Addis is building a local community where developers can connect, discuss Bitcoin’s technical developments, and discover resources, programs, and pathways that support getting started and contributing to the ecosystem.

Join the community and attend the monthly meetups to be part of the conversation and connect with other builders in the ecosystem.

A big thank you to

, Hana Terefe, and Yeabsra for getting the ball rolling. 🧡

We’re excited to announce the Q1 Btrust Developer Grant recipients, our largest cohort to date. 🚀

Ten Bitcoin open-source developers have been awarded grants, including six starter grant recipients and four open-source cohort members, including two renewals and two promotions from starter to long-term grants.

This cohort also marks a couple of important firsts: support for Cashu 🥜 development and the introduction of a dedicated research role within the open-source cohort. This builds on our work across the stack, from core protocol development to wallets, privacy tools, and user-facing applications.

The Btrust starter grant provides support for software engineers ready to contribute full-time to open-source Bitcoin development. It allows recipients to explore areas of interest, identify a focus for long-term contributions, and engage deeply with the global Bitcoin developer community with relevant support via mentorship and without financial constraints.

Q1, 2026 starter grantees are: • Michael Ariwaodo working on Cashu • Frankline Omondi working on Bitcoin Core and bip353‑rs • John Osezele working on Bitcoin Dev Kit and Rust Payjoin • Victor Chabunda working on rust‑payjoin and UniFFI‑Dart • Muhammad Shehu working on Payjoin Dev Kit and Bitcoin Dev Kit • Sonkeng Maldini working on Bitcoin Dev Kit and Bitcoin Core

The Btrust Open-Source Cohort offers long-term support to established Bitcoin open-source contributors, promoting a collaborative environment for sustained development.

Members receive funding paid monthly in bitcoin, mentorship, and peer support to deepen their work on critical Bitcoin open-source projects. The cohort model aims to build a resilient, inclusive developer ecosystem, enabling contributors from the Global Majority to make meaningful, lasting impacts on Bitcoin's open-source ecosystem.

Q1, 2026 long-term grantees are: • Chuks Agbakuru working on Lightning Dev Kit • Peter Tyonum working on Bitcoin Dev Kit • Enigbe Ochekliye working on Lightning Dev Kit with a focus on research • Tobechi Chukwuleta working on BTCPay Server

Learn more about the recipients and what they’re working on in the blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/q1-2026-btrust-developer-grant-announcement

Applications for Btrust developer grants are open year-round, with new grantees announced quarterly.

If you’re a developer looking to contribute to Bitcoin open source projects, we encourage you to apply.

Learn more about Btrust developer grants here: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/developer

Bitcoin runs because of people. Developers who review code, fix bugs, debate tradeoffs, and quietly maintain the software behind a global monetary network.

Btrust was created to help decentralize Bitcoin development across the Global Majority. One way we do this is by funding and supporting African developers contributing to Bitcoin open‑source projects.

In 2025, we focused on building the systems to make this work better. We experimented, improved our processes, and strengthened the pipeline that supports developers contributing to Bitcoin.

And our grantees delivered.

They contributed to 15 Bitcoin open‑source projects, including Bitcoin Core, Lightning Dev Kit, Bitcoin Dev Kit, BTCPay Server, BlueWallet, Rust‑Bitcoin, and more.

Together they produced 431 commits, 222 merged pull requests, and 475 code reviews, helping improve tools used across the Bitcoin ecosystem.

This blog, co-authored by Kelvin Isievwore, breaks down the projects they worked on, the technical contributions they made, and the impact across the Bitcoin stack.

Read the full blog to learn more: https://blog.btrust.tech/2025-btrust-developer-grantee-impact/

Learn more about our developer grant program and apply through our website: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/developer

Reminder 🚨

Tomorrow is the final day to apply for the Programs & Operations Officer and Communications Associate positions.

We’ve received an overwhelming response, with over 490 and 480 applications respectively.

Learn more and submit your application below:

Programs & Operations Officer: https://btrust.homerun.co/programs-operations-officer/en

Communications Associate:

https://btrust.homerun.co/communications-associate/en

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Rust 🦀 is quickly becoming one of the most important languages in the Bitcoin ecosystem. From wallet libraries to Lightning implementations, more projects are adopting Rust for its safety, performance, and reliability, traits that align perfectly with Bitcoin’s need for secure and predictable software.

At the 2025 #BtrustDeveloperDay, Jamal ERRAKIBI explored this growing trend in his talk, breaking down what makes Rust different from other languages and why it’s reshaping how Bitcoin software is built.

🎥 Watch the session recording here: https://www.youtube.com/live/bDxhY5p1yKQ?t=5145s

In our latest blog, Jamal expands on that talk, diving deeper into how Rust’s memory safety, high performance, and strong type system power projects like rust-bitcoin, BDK, rust-lightning, and Fedimint.

He also shares lessons from contributing to Rust-Bitcoin and practical advice for developers looking to get started or contribute.

👉 Read the full article here:

https://blog.btrust.tech/why-rust-is-becoming-essential-in-bitcoin-2/

We recently had the pleasure of sponsoring and being part of the just concluded

🇿🇦 conference.

Things kicked off on Thursday with the Bitcoin Circular Economy Summit, followed by the pre-conference hangout. It was a great chance to meet people, network, and enjoy some fun activities like sim golf ⛳ before the main event began.

On day 1,

, a Btrust developer grantee working on Stratum V2, presented a session on mining decentralization. He broke things down from the basics all the way to the technical details, showing why mining pool centralization can become a censorship risk.

He also shared how Stratum V2 helps miners choose their own transactions, making Bitcoin more secure and decentralized.

On day 2,

, our communications lead spoke about what it takes to support and sustain open-source development in Africa and the Global South.

She reminded everyone that behind Bitcoin is a strong human layer, consisting of developers, reviewers, maintainers, and community builders whose work keeps the network running and growing.

She also shared how developers help turn Bitcoin from just a protocol into tools people actually use every day, like wallets, self-custody solutions, and payment infrastructure.

That’s why decentralization shouldn’t stop at the code. We need builders from more places, especially those who understand local challenges, helping shape the tools that will bring Bitcoin to the next billion users.

We’re proud to support this work by creating more sustainable paths for contributors and helping strengthen the ecosystem.

One of the coolest parts of the conference was seeing bitcoin used in real life. We were able to buy coffee using bitcoin, powered by nostr:nprofile1qqs22d4tralncqfnh2kmmarjkxk8449hwnk5xtqe3y5yry6hy7ytegqpzemhxue69uhk2er9dchxummnw3ezumrpdejz7qgcwaehxw309ahx7um5wghxvmt59emkj73wvf5h5tcpz4mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfduhsymkvl9, one of the open-source projects helping make bitcoin payments possible.

There was also a dedicated workshop space where builders got to share what they’re working on. It was exciting to see solutions being built from real local problems, and we loved connecting with the community and exploring new partnerships.

A big thank you to the organizers and everyone involved for putting together such an amazing experience. https://blossom.primal.net/7e4fb920735fc790d5d89846b12d50f146e173cacf737d720c4369f2426036e5.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/64d6c4a62d94269e8aa353b3ee7647abd6cfbb335019d0868f3c7127da2ed619.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/533ce4a89ced05ac411497c4cbc788a042955c794d32cde4ede1f208a4508954.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/4d114138b39eb7a092f0844370a5faa47219b5497ee5bd63d54c2e59843a2d6b.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/2e88daeabe4eb2fd477ac0f9295397cfd2a232285115839c56302add0c5a05a8.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/91aded27bbcc1a221fe5d5502f4bd8d67db48a727fd9a86fb82141a8e3bde0c5.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/c67f2dc707f28902d68fa5eec95cb0ae2702db03f0f90ecea226ae6d7db25520.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/baa64e456c349b0202e7ec16e1c57761a38d6e41235b9a1779cb3e95ebe63f91.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/e2a77f26409c337b0341c7b4fe3f34c234ab959bc2c89010047fb165cbdb3195.jpg https://blossom.primal.net/085adbfb4d5c1ab04d286b417adf1e7608157e478f2ba1f528eccdf5cf172cdd.jpg

Btrust is hiring! 🚀

We’re looking for a Communications Associate to support the planning, creation, and execution of communications and marketing initiatives that amplify Btrust’s mission and showcase the impact of our work across the Global South.

This is a full-time, remote role focused on content coordination, campaign support, community engagement, and storytelling around Bitcoin open-source development.

If you’re proficient in communications, digital marketing, and building in the Bitcoin ecosystem, we’d love to hear from you.

📅 Application deadline: February 13, 2026

Learn more about the role and apply here: https://btrust.homerun.co/communications-associate/en

Btrust is hiring! 🚀

We’re looking for a Programs & Operations Officer to help execute and scale Btrust’s programs, grants, and community infrastructure across the Global South.

This is a full-time, remote role at the center of our work supporting Bitcoin developers, grassroots communities, and open-source education initiatives.

If you’re a strong operator who enjoys coordinating programs, improving systems, and delivering impact in a mission-driven organization, we’d love to hear from you.

📅 Application deadline: February 13, 2026

Learn more about the role and apply here: https://btrust.homerun.co/programs-operations-officer/en

A big thank you to the

team for featuring us in this week's edition of the Financial Freedom Report. 🧡

Read the full report and subscribe here: https://us14.campaign-archive.com/?u=c5e3037cd362a8e29147b750c&id=77ebdedf87

We've been working on the BitDevs Playbook for a while, so it's incredibly rewarding to finally see it out in the world.

The playbook is live and fully open-source, and you're welcome to give your feedback and contribute to it. You can access the playbook here: https://github.com/btrustteam/the-bitdevs-playbook

Learn more about why developed it and what it aims to support: https://blog.btrust.tech/introducing-the-bitdevs-playbook/

We’re excited to be back at the

Conference for the third year in a row and proud to return as a sponsor. 🚀

and

will be on-ground speaking at the conference and sharing more about the work we’ve been doing at Btrust.

We’re looking forward to reconnecting with the community, meeting new builders, and continuing the conversation around building a more sustainable and decentralized future for Bitcoin.

See you soon!

#abct26

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Over the past few years, BitDevs communities across Africa have been building technical spaces rooted in learning, openness, and collaboration. Today, we’re sharing the guide that brings those lessons together.

The BitDevs Playbook v0.1.0 is the first public release of a practical, open‑source guide for building and sustaining Bitcoin‑only technical communities across the Global South.

Grounded in real experience from BitDevs communities across Africa, it explains what BitDevs is, why the model works, and how to start, run, and sustain high‑quality technical meetups with shared standards around learning, privacy, neutrality, and non‑commercial focus.

In the accompanying blog, we reflect on why BitDevs matters, how the model creates space for open discussion and open‑source contribution, and how communities across Africa have grown beyond monthly meetups into hubs of ongoing learning and collaboration: https://blog.btrust.tech/introducing-the-bitdevs-playbook/

Many of these communities, supported by organizations like Btrust and

, have helped members access advanced programs such as Chaincode Labs’ BOSS program and the

pathways.

Some members have gone on to start careers in Bitcoin open‑source development, supported by organizations like Btrust and the

, while others have gone on to build products and projects of their own.

The Playbook is fully open‑source and community‑driven. It covers the full lifecycle of a BitDevs location, from assessing local interest and hosting a first meetup, to maintaining quality, handling challenges, and even responsibly pausing or closing a location when needed.

It’s designed for organizers, sponsors, contributors, and anyone who cares about building credible, technically grounded Bitcoin communities.

Huge thanks to Stephanie Titcombe for authoring the playbook, and nostr:nprofile1qqsgfhsg3q4kudnstnm9jth93e3jm4hqjtwkrsf3jt7gpjaupj7g9nqpp4mhxue69uhkummn9ekx7mqpz3mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfdu2ae5re, Simon from BitDevsNBO, and Tobechi Chukwuleta for shaping this first release with their experience and feedback.

📘 Explore the Playbook to learn how to use it and contribute your insights here: https://github.com/btrustteam/the-bitdevs-playbook

Highlights from the 2025 #BtrustGalaDinner ✨

We called, and you answered. The theme for the night was elegant, and attendees showed up and showed out. It was a night filled with joy, and incredible energy!

The evening kicked off with aperitifs and light bites at the backstage lounge, setting the tone for relaxed networking and easy conversations.

As guests made their way into the hall, the host, Paul Eke, got things started with ice-breakers, followed by a welcome address from

.

then shared a moving farewell, representing the outgoing inaugural Btrust Board. Since 2021, this board has been responsible for overseeing the delivery of Btrust’s mission, guiding the organization through its formative yea rs and setting the foundation for future success. We celebrate and thank them for their vision and leadership.

The night also saw us celebrate the 2025 cohort of the Btrust Builders pathways, recognizing top students for their dedication, growth, and excellence throughout the program.

A special moment was dedicated to celebrating Abubakar Nur Khalil and formally welcoming him into the office of the CEO. Under his leadership, Btrust has experienced a period of significant growth and transformation, moving from early groundwork to executing at scale. This includes expanding our programs, launching new partnerships, growing our developer reach, strengthening our grants review and delivery processes, and refining our internal systems and team structure.

We wrapped up the evening with great food, drinks, dancing, and conversations, the perfect close to an unforgettable year.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and made the night truly special. We hope to see you soon 🧡

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On December 3rd, we hosted the #BtrustGalaDinner at the Hennessy Park Hotel in Mauritius 🇲🇺.

It was an evening to pause, breathe, and celebrate after a year of hard work.

Leaders, builders, and friends from across the Bitcoin ecosystem came together to reflect on our collective progress and strengthen the connections shaping Bitcoin’s future globally.

A huge thank‑you to everyone who joined us and made the evening so special. 🧡

Events and conferences are often the gateway into Bitcoin open‑source development, spaces where curious builders can connect, learn, and take their first steps toward meaningful contribution. They’re where discovery turns into collaboration, and collaboration into lasting impact.

That’s why we’re excited to present the recipients of our second round of 2025 Btrust event grants, supporting nine unique gatherings across Africa, Latin America, and beyond: • Dev/Hack/Day at

• OSCAFEST 2025 by Open Source Community Africa • Hack4Freedom by EVENTO • DevFest Mauritius 2025 by GDG Mauritius • Code & Chain: A Bitcoin Meetup by Bitnob • Bitcoin CoreDev Meetup organized by Brink • Bitcoin Dev Summit and Satsconf at the São Paulo Bitcoin Week • DevFest Lagos 2025 by GDG Lagos

Each one is creating new entry points into the global Bitcoin developer ecosystem while strengthening the community in the Global South.

Event Grants help keep these gateways open and inclusive, feeding into the long‑term pipeline of developer education programs, fellowships, and open‑source contribution, ensuring Bitcoin development remains decentralized and globally distributed.

Read the full blog and meet the grantees: https://blog.btrust.tech/introducing-the-second-round-of-2025-btrust-event-grant-recipients/

Applications for Btrust event grants are open year-round. Learn more and apply through our website: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/event

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Highlights from this year's

in Mauritius 🇲🇺.

On day one, our CEO,

, delivered his keynote on Btrust in 2026, sharing our achievements in 2025 and our strategic roadmap for the year ahead.

Later that day, Abubakar Sadiq Ismail led a technical workshop on building a Bitcoin Node using the libbitcoinkernel library, introducing Bitcoin Core’s upcoming consensus engine.

Day two featured a presentation on BTCPay Server plugins by Tobechi Chukwuleta, highlighting how plugins expand merchant tools and create new business opportunities.

In the afternoon, Raj, CEO of

, spoke about training Bitcoin developers in India 🇮🇳 and the Global South, outlining a roadmap for developer growth and contribution.

Day three brought education and collaboration to the fore, with Tuedon Tuoyo kicking off the BOSS Challenge by Chaincode Labs, giving participants a practical entry point into Bitcoin open‑source contribution.

Applications for the BOSS Challenge are open until December 31st, offering aspiring developers a chance to join a hands‑on, skill‑building journey. Apply to join the 2026 cohort here: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

The final day was also a moment of pride for our community, as Abubakar Nur Khalil was named most impactful African Bitcoiner of 2025, and nostr:nprofile1qqsg6gcf7gx74c2ls58vl653mlaah68ddk4wrj5gg8kux3walma4zwcpz4mhxue69uhhyetvv9ujuerpd46hxtnfduhszrnhwden5te0dehhxtnvdakz7qghwaehxw309aex2mrp0yh8qunfd4skctnwv46z7lufrz8 was recognized as the African Bitcoin project of 2025. A huge thank you to the nostr:nprofile1qqsq0q9n9t2qvkvtcnem08q84yqx8tr0kcvwdys4zc5wk2k0ly6t29gpr3mhxue69uhkummnw3ez6ur4vgh8xetdd9ek7mpwv3jhvtcpr4mhxue69uhkummnw3ezucnfw33k76twv4ezuum0vd5kzmp0qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7d60meq team for the recognition.

As a sponsor, we also had a booth which was a point for conversations, and learning about our programs, with visitors leaving with exclusive merch and new ways to get involved.

We are proud of the incredible representation from our ecosystem at #ABC2025 and grateful to everyone who interacted with us in Mauritius.

We’re looking forward to the work ahead as we continue building the future of open‑source Bitcoin development across the Global South.🧡

#ABC25

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We recently had the pleasure of sponsoring and taking part in this year’s

, held from December 3–5 at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port Louis, Mauritius 🇲🇺.

The Africa Bitcoin Conference brings together builders, businesses, innovators, policymakers, and community members from across Africa and beyond, all working to advance Bitcoin on the continent.

This year, we brought in over 90 people from across our ecosystem, including the Btrust team, grantees, members from

,

, nostr:nprofile1qqsgc8mpvvr9y0qeh896dew894lcal24jsrzpaq0yjjlrujn4jfphgspzdmhxue69uhkummnw3ezu7nzvshxwee0qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7qghwaehxw309aex2mrp0yh8qunfd4skctnwv46z7dyy9h6, nostr:nprofile1qqsgkt24wdkaksa8exnxgy6tmzs42tra8g30mvplcmk3eqar0z30rxgpremhxue69uhkummnw3ez6ur4vgh8wetvd3hhyer9wghxuet59uq36amnwvaz7tmwdaehgu3dwfjkccte9e6kuar9w358ytndv5hszgmhwden5te0dehhxarj94mx2unfve5k2epwwajkcmr0wfjx2u3wdejhgtcclg4q2, #BtrustDeveloperDay speakers, and more, to attend the conference, lead sessions, and connect with the wider Bitcoin community.

Beyond the sessions and conversations, we had a great time reconnecting, learning, and building alongside the community.

Huge thanks to the Africa Bitcoin Conference organisers for the amazing event and for the work that went into making it a success.

#ABC25 #ABC2025

Final call 🚨🚨

The next chapter of Btrust is being written-and this is your opportunity to be part of it.

We’re looking for mission-driven leaders ready to contribute to governance, strategy, and long-term impact.

Learn more & apply: https://forms.gle/Bi8S2BGuT4Amu9Az8

This year’s #BtrustDeveloperDay in Mauritius 🇲🇺 was one for the books! 🎉

We welcomed over 260 attendees, far more than we’d expected, making it our biggest and most vibrant edition yet.

This event was truly special, not just for the work that went into it, but for the connections and collaborations we made along the way.

A huge thank you to all our speakers, booth exhibitors, and attendees for showing up, sharing knowledge, and making this year’s Developer Day an incredible success. 🙏

With 30+ speakers, hands-on workshops, live demos, lightning talks, and even games, the day was filled with energy, learning, and collaboration.

From deep technical sessions on Bitcoin development, Lightning, privacy, and infrastructure to discussions on education, inclusion, and open‑source growth in Africa, there was something for every builder.

We’ll be sharing a detailed recap and blog post soon, but for now, we just want to say thank you for being part of this growing community of Bitcoin builders. 🧡

We’re celebrating Duncan Dean, whose journey as a long-term Btrust grantee left a lasting mark.

During his time with Btrust, Duncan led major progress on dual-funded channels in Lightning Dev Kit, contributed to the BOLTs specifications, and represented our community across global stages, from Nairobi 🇰🇪 to Cape Town 🇿🇦, Oslo 🇳🇴, Prague 🇨🇿, and Seoul 🇰🇷.

Beyond his technical contributions, Duncan championed open-source collaboration and mentorship across Africa and beyond.

Read the full story and discover what’s next for Duncan: https://blog.btrust.tech/celebrating-duncan-deans-journey-with-btrust/

On November 29 and 30, we hosted our annual #BtrustGathering at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel in Port Louis, Mauritius 🇲🇺.

This year’s theme, mapping the future ofnopen‑source collaboration across the Global South, set the tone for two days of deep learning, open conversation, and collective action.

We welcomed around 75 participants from across our community, including the Btrust team, grantees, and members from

,

,

and nostr:nprofile1qqsgc8mpvvr9y0qeh896dew894lcal24jsrzpaq0yjjlrujn4jfphgspzdmhxue69uhkummnw3ezu7nzvshxwee0qy2hwumn8ghj7un9d3shjtnyv9kh2uewd9hj7qghwaehxw309aex2mrp0yh8qunfd4skctnwv46z7dyy9h6. Together, we explored the evolving landscape of open‑source Bitcoin development and how collaboration can accelerate progress across the Global South.

Two days of exchanges, workshops, and genuine connection reminded us of the power of community and what’s possible when developers across the Global South co‑create the future of open‑source Bitcoin development.

We’re deeply grateful to everyone who joined us, and we’re looking forward to the work ahead of us.

"This is my first time outside India 🇮🇳 to an international bitcoin conference or gathering. The bar has been set really high for me now." Paperpsych from

.

Day two of the 2025 #BtrustGathering built beautifully on the momentum from day one, diving deeper into collective learning and collaboration.

Day two of the #BtrustGathering began with an opening plenary, where participants shared takeaways and reflections from day one and discussed what to look forward to.

The morning continued with a session on rethinking developer funding and support, facilitated by Kelvin Isievwore. This session explored how developers across the Global South are supported, financially and beyond, through existing funding mechanisms, mentorship, travel opportunities, and access to tools. We brainstormed practical ways to build fairer, more sustainable models that empower developers long‑term.

Next came an insightful session on finding your lane and building credibility in open-source, by Edil Medeiros. This conversation encouraged developers to navigate their open‑source development journeys with authenticity, confidence, and resilience.

We then had a thought‑provoking panel on AI, facilitated by Kelvin Isievwore and featuring Abubakar Nur Khalil, Raj, Bruno Ely Reis Garcia, Federico Zupicich, and Leonardo L. The panel unpacked how AI is reshaping open‑source contributions, from enhancing reviews and documentation to transforming developer workflows, and discussed both the opportunities and trade‑offs it brings to Bitcoin development.

After a productive morning of discussions and learning, we took a break to take group photos and lunch.

In the afternoon we moved into the mapping Global South FOSS priorities workshop, facilitated by Abubakar Nur Khalil. Participants worked collaboratively to define shared priorities, align regional outcomes, and begin drafting a collective 2026 roadmap for open‑source growth across the region.

We closed the day, and the gathering, with a heart‑to‑heart fireside chat on lessons from the field. This conversation, featuring Kelvin Isievwore, Nymius, Abubakar Sadiq Ismail, Stratosphere and Marcello Pinsdorf, highlighted real‑world experiences, challenges, and lessons from the community, with candid reflections on sustaining motivation, balancing life and contribution, and navigating burnout.

With the Gathering coming to a close, participants left inspired and energized, ready to carry the spirit of collaboration, learning, and open‑source excellence into the year ahead.

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Day one of the #BtrustGathering began with an engaging opening plenary by Stephanie Titcombe, followed by the state of Btrust address from our CEO,

, who shared a thoughtful year‑in‑review, key milestones from 2025, and the outlook for 2026.

The morning continued with the 2025 program reports, where

,

, nostr:nprofile1qqsd6j6yks9vne0us4ksdp7pqa38ucf94le4per0xnfzh23xrg2njgspzamhxue69uhhyetvv9ujumn0wd68ytnzv9hxgtc7qjgfj, and Libreria de Satoshi presented updates on their work, growth, and the impact they’ve created in supporting open‑source Bitcoin development across the Global South.

In the afternoon, participants joined cross‑organization working groups to explore opportunities for collaboration on joint programs, developer connectivity, localization, and technical cooperation.

Discussions also covered shared initiatives, developer exchange and communication, grants and sustainability, as well as community growth, storytelling, and brand alignment.

These sessions were energetic and idea‑driven, with groups sharing thoughtful outputs that reflected the strength of cross‑community collaboration.

The day captured the essence of what the gathering stands for; connection, transparency, and collective progress.

It was a powerful reminder of how much can be achieved when builders from across the Global South come together to advance open‑source Bitcoin development.

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Highlights from day one of the 2025 #BtrustGathering 🎉

Day one of set the tone for the work that's to come in 2026. It was a day focused on sharing progress, celebrating program highlights, and reflecting on our collective impact across the ecosystem.

We recently announced our Q4 2025 Btrust Developer Grant recipients at this year’s #BtrustDeveloperDay 🚀

We’re celebrating six exceptional Bitcoin open‑source developers from across Africa who are driving forward decentralization, privacy, and scalability in the Bitcoin ecosystem.

This cohort includes four starter grant recipients and two long‑term open‑source cohort members, all building critical infrastructure that strengthens the global Bitcoin ecosystem.

Read the full announcement and meet the recipients on our blog: https://blog.btrust.tech/announcing-q4-2025-btrust-developer-grant-recipients/

The Btrust Starter Grant empowers software engineers to contribute to open‑source Bitcoin development full‑time, offering mentorship, community support, and the freedom to focus on impactful, long‑term projects.

Shammah Destiny Agwor is advancing privacy and reliability within Rust‑Payjoin, enhancing transaction‑level privacy through metrics‑driven adoption tracking, performance optimizations, and security enhancements. He will also lead the creation of a community Payjoin PR Review Club to onboard new contributors.

Mohamed Emad is improving Bitcoin privacy infrastructure by enhancing the Mill‑IO event‑loop library and leading the migration of Coinswap to an event‑driven architecture. His work will bring Bitcoin‑specific performance optimizations, a new RPC framework, and detailed developer documentation to strengthen privacy and scalability.

Simon focuses on mining decentralization through the Stratum V2 Template Provider and sv2‑apps. As co‑founder of BitDevs Nairobi, Btrust Builders faculty member, and Bitcoin educator who has facilitated developer bootcamps both within and outside Kenya, he is helping nurture the next generation of open‑source contributors.

Ifeanyichukwu Amajuoyi is strengthening Lightning infrastructure through production‑level improvements to LDK‑Server, adding PostgreSQL support for high availability, a unified logging system, and comprehensive telemetry. His work addresses core stability and operability for Lightning Service Providers (LSPs) worldwide.

The Btrust Long‑Term Grant sustains established open‑source contributors with year‑long support, mentoring, and funding to help them expand their impact across vital Bitcoin projects.

Abdullahi Yunus, a former Starter Grantee and Btrust Builders alum, is deepening his work on Onion Messaging (BOLT 4) and BOLT 12 Offers in LND, pushing forward privacy‑preserving, invoice‑less Lightning payments. He will also enhance Lightning Polar with new developer tooling and testing features to support broader interoperability in the Lightning Network.

Sulaiman Aminu Barkindo is driving VLS (Validating Lightning Signer) to mainnet readiness, integrating secure persistence, fuzz testing, dual funding, and splicing support while improving entropy security and enterprise‑scale validation. His long‑term focus on security and enclave deployments will make VLS production‑ready for non‑custodial Lightning operators.

Five of the six recipients are graduates of the Btrust Builders program, which offers structured learning pathways covering Bitcoin fundamentals, open‑source contribution practices, and mentorship from seasoned Bitcoin developers.

Their journey, from Builders graduates to funded grantees, highlights Btrust’s commitment to cultivating long‑term open‑source careers in the Global South and expanding the network of independent Bitcoin contributors worldwide.

Applications are now open for the 2026 ₿OSS (Bitcoin Open‑Source Software) Challenge, a structured, hands‑on program for developers taking their first steps into Bitcoin open‑source development, created by Chaincode Labs.

Learn about the ₿OSS Challenge: https://blog.btrust.tech/btrust-builders-chaincode-labs-partner-again-for-the-2026-boss-challenge/

Apply for the 2026 cohort: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

BOSS Challenge cohort applications close December 31st, 2025.

Btrust developer grant applications are open year-round, with new recipients announced quarterly.

If you’re a developer passionate about contributing to Bitcoin open-source development, we encourage you to apply.

Learn more about our grant programs and apply through our website: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/developer

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Applications for the Btrust Board are ongoing 🚨

We are seeking new board members from the Global South region to join our mission-driven organization and help shape its next chapter.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Btrust’s vision of strengthening Bitcoin open-source development across the Global South.

The incoming members will succeed our inaugural board as part of Btrust’s planned transition process. Following this first three-year term, all future boards will serve two-year terms, with staggered transitions to ensure continuity and stability.

If you’re passionate about open-source development, Bitcoin, and community-driven impact, we’d love to hear from you.

🗓 Applications close: 22nd December, 2025 📢 Notifications sent by 26th January, 2026

Learn more and apply here: https://forms.gle/Bi8S2BGuT4Amu9Az8

We’re excited to partner with Chaincode Labs for the 2026 ₿OSS Challenge, through our engineering program,

.🎉

Learn more about the partnership and program here: https://blog.btrust.tech/btrust-builders-chaincode-labs-partner-again-for-the-2026-boss-challenge/

Applications are open until the 31st of this month.

Apply to join the cohort here: https://job-boards.greenhouse.io/chaincodelabs/jobs/4067627009

We're excited to be sponsoring this year's

, happening from December 3-5 at the Caudan Arts Centre in Port Louis, Mauritius.

The conference brings together builders, businesses, innovators, policymakers, and community members from across Africa and beyond, all working to advance bitcoin on the continent.

This year, we've flown in over 90 people from across our ecosystem, including the Btrust team, grantees, members from Btrust Builders, Bitshala, Vinteum & Librería de Satoshi, #BtrustDeveloperDay speakers, and more, to attend the conference.

You'll see us throughout the event, with some of our community members speaking at the conference.

We'll also have a booth, so make sure to stop by to learn more about what we're working on and grab some merch.

We're looking forward to networking with fellow builders, innovators, and community members. See you soon!

#ABC25 #BtrustInMauritius

1 day to go 🚀

Get ready for a full day of building at this year's #BtrustDeveloperDay.

Tomorrow we dive into hands-on sessions, real-time problem-solving, and a full lineup designed to help you learn, collaborate, and create.

We'll be sharing updates across our social media channels throughout the day, so stay tuned and follow along.

And don't forget to bring your laptop.

Learn more and register on our website: devday.btrust.tech

The 2025 #BtrustDeveloperDay schedule is live. 🚀

If you’ve been waiting to see what’s in store, from workshops and keynotes to live demos and lightning talks, it’s all up now.

Catch all the sessions and plan your day on our website: https://devday.btrust.tech/agenda

Register to attend the Developer Day here: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Get ready for a full day of learning, building, and connecting with the global Bitcoin developer community. ⚡

If you’re joining us at the #BtrustDeveloperDay, we’ve got you covered.

We’re offering free transport for all attendees to make getting to the venue as easy as possible. 🚍

Buses will be running from 7am to 11am, and if you’re coming from Middlesex University, pickups will go until noon.

Here are the routes where you can catch a ride: • University of Mauritius (UoM) → Reduit → Moka • Middlesex University → Coastal Road → Uniciti → Flic‑en‑Flac • African Leadership College (ALCHE) → 21001 Powder Mill Road → Pamplemousses

When the event wraps up, return buses will depart from 4:30pm, following the same routes back.

Find your route, hop on, and enjoy the ride. Your transport to Dev Day is on us! 🎉

👉 Register to attend: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

New to bitcoin? Stop by the Bitcoin 101 booth at the #BtrustDeveloperDay to get guided, hands‑on help from our team. 

Our booth will walk you through the fundamentals of bitcoin, what it is, how it works, and why it matters, while helping you set up your wallet.

You’ll get to explore user‑friendly tools like Wallet of Satoshi and

and learn how to send, receive, and secure your bitcoin with confidence.

Our team will be available throughout the event to answer questions, share practical tips, and help you take your first steps toward bitcoin ownership and financial independence.

👉 Register to attend the Developer Day here: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY 

Visit the Btrust and BitDevs Mauritius 🇲🇺 booth at #BtrustDeveloperDay to learn more about how you can start your journey in Bitcoin open‑source development and get involved with developer communities across Africa and the Global South.

At the booth, visitors can explore Btrust‑supported programs, discover opportunities for training, mentorship, and grants, and find guidance on how to contribute to major open‑source Bitcoin projects.

You’ll also learn how to connect with local builders through BitDevs Mauritius, a vibrant community hosting regular meetups, workshops, and discussions for developers passionate about Bitcoin and Lightning.

Learn more about Btrust: https://www.btrust.tech

Learn more and join the BitDevs Mauritius community here: https://www.bitdevsmauritius.org

👉 Register to attend Btrust Developer Day: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have the

🐝 team joining us at the #BtrustDeveloperDay! ⚡

Alby builds simple, powerful tools on Bitcoin that make sending and receiving payments as easy and open as sharing information online.

With a strong focus on usability and interoperability, Alby is helping individuals, communities, and businesses take full control of their money, reduce payment friction, and unlock new possibilities for value transfer across the open internet.

At their booth, attendees can explore how Alby’s open‑source ecosystem, including browser extensions, APIs, and Lightning integrations, is enabling seamless Bitcoin payments for apps, websites, and content creators around the world.

Stop by the Alby booth to meet the team, see the tools in action, and discover how they’re helping make Bitcoin part of everyday internet experiences.

Learn more about Alby: https://getalby.com

👉 Register to attend Btrust Developer Day: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Explore Flash, a platform bridging Bitcoin and the Lightning Network with mobile money across Francophone Africa. ⚡

Flash makes it easy for users to buy and sell bitcoin via mobile money and even make payments directly to mobile money accounts using bitcoin, connecting the power of bitcoin to one of Africa’s most widely used financial systems.

Visit the Flash booth at the #BtrustDeveloperDay to meet the team, see the platform in action, and learn about how they’re empowering financial access in Francophone Africa through bitcoin.

Learn more about the platform here: https://bitcoinflash.xyz

👉 Register to attend the Developer Day: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Discover three powerful tools transforming payments and infrastructure in the bitcoin ecosystem at the #BtrustDeveloperDay.

BTCPay Server is a secure, self‑hosted, and open‑source payment processor that’s private, censorship‑resistant, and free to use. Ideal for merchants and developers looking for full control over their Bitcoin payments.

Mavapay is a flexible Lightning Network API simplifying digital payments across Africa. Experience live demos featuring instant borderless transactions, e‑commerce checkouts, and custom payment links, showcasing how easy it is to integrate scalable bitcoin payment solutions for businesses and apps.

NodeGaze is an open‑source observability tool for Lightning node operators, allowing real‑time monitoring of node performance, channel health, and logs. Explore how the event propagation API enables instant alerts, automation, and seamless integrations for Lightning infrastructure management.

Visit their booth to interact with the teams, test live demos, and learn how these projects are empowering developers and merchants to build secure, scalable Bitcoin payment systems.

👉 Register to attend Btrust Developer Day: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Clooza is a social event and experience platform that helps you discover activities and creators while giving organizers everything they need to manage and grow their communities.

From ticketing and communication to analytics, creator loans, and fast payouts through a digital wallet, Clooza provides a seamless all‑in‑one solution to monetize and expand your audience.

At the #BtrustDeveloperDay, the Clooza team will be showcasing how their platform is powering the next generation of events and creator experiences. Stop by, meet the team and explore the platform.

Learn more about Clooza here: https://clooza.com

👉 Register to attend the Developer Day here: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Curious about building on Bitcoin? Pass by the

booth at the #BtrustDeveloperDay to explore free, open‑source resources designed to help you grow as a Bitcoin developer.

Whether you’re already contributing to Bitcoin open‑source software (BOSS) or just getting started, the team will be there to answer questions, share tools, and connect you with the broader developer community.

You’ll also be able to experience live demos of some flagship products like ChatBTC, Decoding Bitcoin, and Saving Satoshi, interactive platforms that make learning Bitcoin development engaging, accessible, and fun.

Learn more about the Bitcoin Dev Project here: bitcoindevs.xyz

👉 Register to attend the Developer Day here: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Get ready for some fun and learning at the

booth during the #BtrustDeveloperDay! 🚀

The team has lined up some exciting activities for attendees to explore, play, and build around bitcoin, including: • Mario Kart double sats: Race your friends, have fun, and earn bitcoin via the Lightning Network! It’s gaming meets real‑time bitcoin rewards. • #Hack4Freedom 2026: Learn more about this upcoming two‑week, all‑women hackathon dedicated to building freedom technologies and empowering female builders across the bitcoin ecosystem. • The Evento App: Experience the new version of the Evento app, now featuring a custom built‑in Lightning ⚡ wallet.

RSVP for their session here: https://evento.so/p/evt_gr3wREJtz5EJRLkw

👉 Register to attend the Developer Day here: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

3 days to go 🎉

Today's highlight is a fun perk for everyone joining us in Mauritius. Registered attendees get free merch at this year's #BtrustDeveloperDay.

If you've signed up, you'll walk away with something special to mark the day.

It's our little way of saying thank you for showing up, learning, contributing, and being part of the community pushing Bitcoin forward.

Learn more and register here:

https://www.clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have the Bitika team showcasing at the #BtrustDeveloperDay! ⚡

Bitika is a bitcoin on‑ramp for everyday Kenyans 🇰🇪, allowing anyone to instantly convert mobile money (M‑Pesa) directly into bitcoin in just three simple steps. Their mission is to make bitcoin accessible, practical, and inclusive for everyone.

At their booth, attendees can learn how Bitika works, explore how it integrates seamlessly with widely used payment systems, and see firsthand how they’re making bitcoin adoption smooth, local, and user‑friendly.

Learn more about Bitika here: https://bitika.xyz

👉 Register to attend Btrust Developer Day: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have the Minmo team showcasing their project at the #BtrustDeveloperDay! 🎉

Minmo is an embedded exchange providing tools that empower agents to professionalize their services and better serve end‑users across apps and communities.

Through its infrastructure, Minmo enables developers and businesses to build seamless bitcoin on‑ and off‑ramp experiences, connecting liquidity directly where users need it most.

At their booth, you’ll have the chance to meet the team, see product demos, and learn how Minmo’s APIs and agent network are powering a new wave of bitcoin adoption across Africa and beyond.

Stop by the Minmo booth to connect, explore, and experience how they’re building practical tools that bridge technology and real‑world use for everyday Bitcoin users.

Learn more about Minmo: https://minmo.to

Register to attend the Developer Day here: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

4 days to go 🎉

Today's theme is a fun one. Have you thought of what to wear to the #BtrustDeveloperDay?🤷‍♂️

Mauritius is warm, so think light, comfortable, and practical.

You'll be moving around, coding, and joining hands-on sessions, so dress in whatever keeps you focused and relaxed. No suits, no pressure.

Wear what feels like you. Just bring the laptop. We'll handle the rest.

Learn more and register to attend here: https://www.clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

A little throwback to last year's gala dinner in Nairobi 🇰🇪, in partnership with the Africa Bitcoin Conference.

It was an evening of good company, warm reunions, and a well-earned exhale after a full year.

Can't wait to do it all again this year 🔥🎉

We’re excited to host the 2025 #BtrustGathering, our annual convening, taking place on November 29th & 30th at the Labourdonnais Waterfront Hotel in Port Louis, Mauritius 🇲🇺.

The Btrust Gathering brings together developers, contributors, educators, leaders, and partners from across the Global South, all working to strengthen and shape the future of open-source Bitcoin development.

Over two days, participants will engage in learning sessions, strategic discussions, and collaborative workshops, focusing on how we can build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Bitcoin ecosystems.

This year, we’re bringing together over 70 people from across our community, including the Btrust team, grantees, Btrust Builders faculty and top students from the 2025 pathways, plus team members from Bitshala, Librería de Satoshi, and Vinteum.

We can’t wait to connect, learn, and build together as we continue driving open-source Bitcoin development across the Global South.

#BtrustInMauritius

We’re excited to have takinbrrrr joining us at the #BtrustDeveloperDay for a special fireside chat and Q&A session. 🚀

A passionate advocate for digital freedom, he brings a deep commitment to free and open‑source software (FOSS) and the transformative power of cryptography in shaping a more autonomous digital world.

With a strong background in technology, takinbrrrr champions the belief that software should empower, not control. This guiding philosophy informs his work across projects and initiatives that prioritize transparency, privacy, and user sovereignty.

This is reminder to all builders that using open‑source technology isn’t just a technical choice, it’s a moral and social one, deeply aligned with Bitcoin’s principles of decentralization and freedom.

👉 Learn more and RSVP here to attend: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have

and

, developers at whitenoise.chat, joining us at the #BtrustDeveloperDay.

Both are deeply passionate about Bitcoin and about building tools that advance freedom, privacy, and censorship resistance in the digital world.

Together, they are developing Whitenoise, a secure and private messaging application built on Nostr using MLS (Messaging Layer Security), an open‑source project focused on enabling private communication.

Josefina, a B4OS.dev 2024 alumnus from Chile 🇨🇱, began her career as a software developer in traditional companies building web and mobile apps, before transitioning into Bitcoin development. She even built a Bitcoin arbitrage bot before finding her way into open‑source work. At Whitenoise, she contributes on the Flutter side, helping design reliable and privacy‑preserving user interfaces.

At the Developer Day, Josefina and Javier will present a talk that unpacks their journey building Whitenoise and the technical, ethical, and design challenges of developing censorship‑resistant systems.

They’ll share lessons from building software that prioritizes privacy, the realities of working with emerging protocols like Nostr and MLS, and what it takes to create truly decentralized, unfiltered tools for communication.

Building software is hard, but building software that is private and censorship‑resistant is even harder. Join this session to hear firsthand how the Whitenoise team is tackling that challenge.

👉 RSVP here to secure your spot: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have Nymius, developer at Bitcoin Dev Kit and B4OS 2024 alumnus, joining us at #BtrustDeveloperDay.

An active open‑source contributor with a background in software engineering, Nymius has worked on multiple Bitcoin‑related projects before focusing his efforts on BDK, where he continues to help improve the developer tools that make bitcoin wallet development more efficient and flexible.

At the Developer Day, Nymius will explore the current progress and future potential of the silent payments protocol. He’ll highlight the latest developments, from improvements in libsecp, to wallet integrations like Cake Wallet and Sparrow, and new infrastructure such as Electrum‑like servers that enable silent payment scanning.

Nymius will also dive into the key components still needed for widespread adoption, outlining what developers and wallet builders can do to unlock the full power of this privacy‑focused payment system.

Join us for a forward‑looking discussion on Silent Payments, the innovations driving it, and the missing pieces that will shape its next stage of development.

👉 RSVP now to secure your spot: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have Sandeep Ramgolam, senior software engineer at Livestorm, joining us as a speaker at this year’s #BtrustDeveloperDay.

A passionate technologist and Google Developer Expert in web, Sandeep has spent years at the intersection of software engineering, open source, and community building.

He is the lead organizer of Frontend Coders Mauritius 🇲🇺 and a maintainer of multiple open‑source projects that support the Mauritian developer community.

In his session, Sandeep will take participants on a reflective journey through the evolving landscape of software development in the age of AI, from the early days of GitHub Copilot to the latest agentic coding tools.

Drawing from his personal experiences, he’ll explore both the positives and pitfalls of AI‑assisted development, its impact on developer happiness, and how it’s reshaping open‑source contributions.

👉 RSVP here to secure your spot: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

6 days to go 🥳

Today we're spotlighting the workshop experience at this year's #BtrustDeveloperDay.

Our workshops are built to help you learn by doing. Expect guided sessions where you can experiment, ask questions, and work through concepts alongside other builders.

It's practical, collaborative, and designed to help you walk away with skills you can actually use.

Come curious, and bring your laptops.

Learn more and register here: https://www.clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

In our latest Btrust grantee spotlight, we feature Rita Anene, a developer who went from night-time coder to full-time Bitcoin open-source contributor.

Rita’s story captures the reality for many African developers: balancing a 9-to-5 job while pursuing their passion for open-source development.

Through dedication, late nights, and perseverance, she found her way into the ₿OSS program and eventually to her first open-source contributions.

Thanks to the Btrust developer grant, Rita is now able to focus full-time on Bitcoin open-source development, contributing to projects like LDK Node, deepening her technical expertise, and empowering others to do the same.

Her journey reminds us that with the right support, mentorship, and funding, builders across Africa can play a central role in shaping a more open and decentralized financial system.

Read the full story on our blog to discover how Rita turned persistence into purpose, and how Btrust Grants are helping African developers build the future of Bitcoin: https://blog.btrust.tech/from-night-time-coder-to-full-time-bitcoin-builder-my-journey-through-btrust-and-the-boss-program/

Learn more about Btrust developer grants here: https://www.btrust.tech/grants/developer

We’re excited to have Federico Zupicich, program director and co‑founder of Bitcoin4OpenSource (B4OS), joining us at this year’s #BtrustDeveloperDay.

A former lawyer with a solid background in IT, Federico discovered bitcoin a decade ago and has spent the past six years deeply involved in the ecosystem, focusing on mining, security, and decentralization.

He is a Librería de Satoshi 2022 alumnus and an elected board member of Bitcoin Argentina 🇦🇷, where he continues to support bitcoin advocacy and education across Latin America.

Federico will present a product showcase on B4OS.dev, a comprehensive Bitcoin EdTech platform that brings together student progress tracking, challenge repositories, and automated workflows across the B4OS ecosystem.

By integrating tools such as GitHub Classroom, Moodle LMS, advanced code validation, and scalable communication via n8n and customer.io, the platform streamlines how Bitcoin developers learn, collaborate, and grow, all within a unified learning environment.

👉 RSVP now to secure your spot: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We're excited to have Kelvin Isievwore speaking at the #BtrustDeveloperDay.

Kelvin leads the technical vision, oversees our developer programs, and provides technical oversight for the Btrust grants.

With over a decade of experience in software engineering and a deep commitment to Bitcoin since 2015, Kelvin brings a wealth of expertise in both technical development and community growth.

In this session, Kelvin will share the Q4 grant announcements and provide insights into Btrust's grant program, which supports full-time Bitcoin open-source contributors.

This talk is a must-attend for developers looking to build a career in Bitcoin and make a long-term impact through open-source work.

RSVP here to secure your spot: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

Paul Eke, founder of Blocc, will take the stage as the host for this year’s #BtrustDeveloperDay, bringing his signature blend of charisma, precision, and energy to guide the event from start to finish.

Known for transforming gatherings into unforgettable experiences, Paul is one of the most sought‑after MCs across conferences, concerts, and cultural festivals.

His dynamic presence and commanding style make him a natural connector, effortlessly balancing professionalism with personality, keeping audiences engaged and the atmosphere electric.

Whether hosting high‑profile bitcoin conferences, leading panels of innovators, or energizing creative crowds, Paul’s delivery is consistently sharp and memorable.

👉 RSVP here to attend the event: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

7 days to go 🚀

Today we're spotlighting the brilliant minds joining us at this year's #BtrustDeveloperDay.

Our 2025 speakers include developers, researchers, and open-source contributors shaping Bitcoin across Africa, the Global South, and beyond.

They'll be leading technical sessions, sharing real-world experience, and giving you direct insight into the work happening in Bitcoin today.

It's a chance to learn from people building the future of the ecosystem, up close.

Learn more and register here:

https://www.clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have Theophilus Isah, CEO and co‑founder of Mavapay, joining the #BtrustDeveloperDay speaker lineup.🚀

Theo is a dedicated bitcoin advocate and builder working to expand bitcoin adoption and infrastructure across the African continent.

As CEO of Mavapay, he’s pioneering payment systems that connect African businesses to the global bitcoin economy.

An alumnus of the

program, Theo has led developer workshops and bootcamps across Nigeria 🇳🇬 and Ghana 🇬🇭, and remains deeply engaged in building open‑source tools that advance real‑world bitcoin use.

His focus on technical education in the Global South has inspired and trained a new generation of builders across the bitcoin ecosystem.

In the workshop, Theo, Abdullahi Yunus and Sulaiman Aminu Barkindo will walk participants through the practical process of deploying an LND node environment, and integrating it with NodeGaze, an open‑source observability tool for visualizing real‑time channel health, payments, and system events.

Theo will also be part of the Lightning Round Q&A, alongside other global contributors and African builders. This session gives you the chance to ask questions about contribution paths, opportunities and challenges, so come prepared with your questions.

👉 Learn more and RSVP here to attend: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We’re excited to have Abdullahi Yunus, software engineer and Btrust grantee, speaking at the #BtrustDeveloperDay.

Abdullahi contributes to LND, one of the open‑source implementations of the Lightning Network, where his work focuses on implementing the onion message protocol, optimizing the network graph, and developing rigorous tests to enhance system stability.

At the Developer Day, Abdullahi will join Theophilus Isah and Sulaiman Aminu Barkindo for a hands-on workshop.

The workshop will guide participants through the process of setting up a Lightning node, configuring it for reliability, and maintaining privacy and stability through best practices.

Attendees will also learn how to automate key tasks to optimize performance and streamline operations, gaining practical insights into how professional developers manage Lightning nodes at scale.

👉 RSVP now to secure your spot: https://clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY

We're just 10 days away from this year's #BtrustDeveloperDay; a gathering for open-source Bitcoin builders across Africa and beyond.

Expect deep technical insights, meaningful conversations, and a day focused entirely on empowering the developer community.

Stay tuned for more updates and announcements in the days ahead.

Learn more and register to attend here: https://www.clooza.com/events/BTRUSTDEVELOPERDAY