PhilSocial Brings Blockchain-Powered Social Impact Initiative to Ethiopia

PhilSocial, a blockchain-based social platform focused on rewarding users for their time and engagement, has announced a major initiative aimed at expanding financial opportunity and community-driven support in Ethiopia. The project positions the country as a real-world example of how decentralized technology can deliver measurable social impact through peer-to-peer participation rather than traditional aid models.

As part of the launch, PhilSocial collaborated with former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn to explore how the platform’s blockchain-enabled social app can introduce a Give-to-Earn model across the region. The concept is designed to encourage digital participation, connection, and community-led initiatives, allowing users to directly support causes created and governed by the community itself.

Ethiopia, one of Africa’s oldest nations, is marked by a rich cultural heritage and a history of resilience, but it continues to face economic challenges, particularly in rural areas where access to opportunity and digital infrastructure remains limited. With a rapidly growing youth population and increasing adoption of digital tools, the country is seen as uniquely positioned at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. This makes it a compelling environment for scalable, people-centered financial solutions built on blockchain and cryptocurrency.

Give-to-Earn Model Targets Financial Inclusion

PhilSocial’s platform operates like a traditional social network, but with a key difference: users are rewarded for their time and engagement. These rewards accumulate and can later be unlocked by contributing to community-created causes. Instead of relying on centralized charities or intermediaries, the model encourages direct, peer-to-peer support between users, reinforcing a sense of shared responsibility and collective impact.

Jerry Lopez, CEO and founder of PhilSocial, described the initiative as a milestone for both the company and the country. He said the project represents a blueprint that can be replicated across Africa and other underserved regions, emphasizing that when communities are equipped with the right tools, they can empower themselves and build sustainable futures from within.

Hailemariam Desalegn echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of financial inclusion and innovation beginning in Ethiopia. He expressed enthusiasm about representing PhilSocial across Africa and leading a continent-wide giving movement rooted in decentralized technology.

Ethiopia Becomes a Launchpad for Crypto-for-Good Vision

The initiative aligns with PhilSocial’s broader Crypto-for-Good vision, which focuses on using blockchain technology to expand access to financial systems and economic participation. By centering its strategy around a social app, the company aims to bring people together across borders, cultures, religions, and economic backgrounds, united by the shared goal of strengthening individuals and communities.

As PhilSocial continues its global expansion, Ethiopia stands as its first major partnership of 2026 and a powerful demonstration of how decentralized platforms can unlock opportunity one community at a time. The company has indicated that additional partnerships are already in development, signaling a broader push to scale this model worldwide.