The air crackles with anticipation. Doodles, the colorful NFT collective that’s like a colorful splash of creativity in the NFT universe has teased “Collide,” and the crypto-sphere is going wild. I’m not only considering the possible price increase or the newly added use case for the $DOOD token. I'm looking at Africa.
“Collide” is more than an upgrade though, it’s a possible gateway opening up the new and vibrant African Web3 community to the larger global ecosystem. Imagine this: artists in Nairobi, coders in Lagos, entrepreneurs in Cape Town, all finding a new avenue to express their creativity and build sustainable businesses within the Doodles ecosystem. That's the awe-inspiring possibility.
I'm a realist. We can’t simply repackage the problem with a new layer of digital paint and assume that everyone will jump on board.
While the potential for Web3 in Africa is immense, the reality is that significant barriers remain:
"Collide" needs to actively address these challenges. Is Doodles working with local internet service providers to subsidize Doodles and expand access? Are they studying the integration of layer-2 solutions to ease congestion and lower gas fees? Are they translating educational materials into the languages of the affected communities? These are the type of questions that have me tossing and turning at night. We need action, not just talk.
The promise of Web3 is empowerment. It’s about returning power to creators so they can determine the future of their work, and enabling local communities to develop their own creative economies. African artists have historically been pushed out of the lucrative markets. Now, thanks to NFTs, they can cut through that by going direct to artist and finding a larger world of collectors out there.
- Connectivity: Reliable, affordable internet access is still a luxury for many.
- Cost: High transaction fees can price out potential participants.
- Awareness: Understanding of blockchain technology and NFTs is still limited.
I’ve talked to a few of the African members of the Doodles community and their stories are incredible. One artist from Accra told me how Doodles provided him with his first opportunity to earn a living through his art. Another developer in Johannesburg is creating a Doodles-themed educational platform for local youth. Those are the voices we need to hear from.
This speculation makes a lot of sense given how media have covered the proposed integration of a $DOOD token. More utility, more rewards – it all sounds nice in theory. However, how will this translate into a better experience for the average African internet user? Or, will the barrier to entry be insurmountably high? Alternatively, will it set up a framework so only those who are rich can fully engage?
I think even the power of the $DOOD token won’t be enough to solve those problems by itself. To get to the best solution possible, we’ll require more than token integration.
Today, the NFT space is filled with failed projects that talked a big game and ended up producing a series of lackluster Adobe Stock assets. The Pudgy Penguins scandal is a cautionary tale. Hype can only take you so far. Execution is everything.
While Doodles has an impressive previous history of innovation behind them, this is a make-or-break moment. If “Collide” ends up disappointing, that will cause a huge sell-off and hurt the reputation of the whole project, which would be ridiculous.
Here's where it gets interesting. Picture a scenario where Doodles collaborates with African NGOs, utilizing NFTs as a means to raise funds for their initiatives. Picture “Collide” connecting with microfinance platforms to deliver loans to young African entrepreneurs. Creating Doodles scholarship opportunities for African students who want to build careers in Web3.
It’s the kind of bold move that can really change lives. They further stake Doodles’ claim as a creative and cultural force for good in the world.
“Collide” is well positioned to be a game-changer for the vibrant African Web3 community. That takes more than flashy PR and technical smoke and mirrors. It takes more than new technology. It takes a real commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration.
I would highly recommend the Doodles team to continue working hands-on with African artists, developers and community leaders. Listen to their voices. Understand their needs. Commit to creating a future where all people possess the means to join the Web3 revolution.
The future of Web3 in Africa isn’t a spectator sport. It's a collaborative effort. Let's get to work.
Unexpected Connections: From Doodles to Development
Here's where it gets interesting. Imagine Doodles partnering with African NGOs to use NFTs as a fundraising tool. Imagine "Collide" integrating with microfinance platforms to provide loans to African entrepreneurs. Imagine Doodles scholarships for African students pursuing careers in Web3.
These are the kind of bold moves that could truly transform lives and position Doodles as a force for good in the world.
The Call to Action: Let's Build Together
"Collide" has the potential to be a game-changer for the African Web3 community. But it requires more than just hype and technical wizardry. It requires a genuine commitment to inclusivity, empowerment, and collaboration.
I urge the Doodles team to actively engage with African artists, developers, and community leaders. Listen to their voices. Understand their needs. Build a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate in the Web3 revolution.
The future of Web3 in Africa is not a spectator sport. It's a collaborative effort. Let's get to work.
