The Senegalese singer who has gained admiration in the music world between 2004-2008 known as Akon becomes the latest Hollywood celebrity to join the crypto sector.
The 45-year-old singer has launched his own cryptocurrency dubbed “AKoin“. In addition to the actual launch, the legend of hip-hop and R&B music announced during the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity held on Monday that will integrate his virtual currency within Akon Crypto City – “a 100 percent crypto-based city in Africa“.
“I think that blockchain and crypto could be the savior for Africa in many ways because it brings the power back to the people, and brings the security back into the currency system, and also allows the people to utilize it in ways where they can advance themselves, and not allow government to do those things that are keeping them down,” stated Akon.
A real-life Wakanda
The Akon Crypto City is already under development on a territory of 22,000-acre received as a gift from the president of Senegal, Macky Sall. According to the coin’s website, the “real-life Wakanda” will look like a standard city, equipped with everything needed for a normal life: buildings, parks, universities, schools, and magazines.
“Akon Crypto City has opportunities for brands, businesses and high-profile individuals to create amazing, inclusive experiences in a futuristic environment and welcomes anyone looking to step into the future!” describes the website.
When asked about his first cryptocurrency and its development, Akon replied that “I come with the concepts and let the geeks figure it out.”
Known for songs like “Smack That” (2006) and “Right Now” (2008), Akon has reorientated his career to helping African communities. He is involving annually in new projects that are meant to develop the living environment in Africa. One of them is called “Akon Lighting Africa,” launched in 2014 to partially address the problem of electricity shortages.
“Start your career with what you’re great at… not what you want to do. Build your career then chase your passion,” he claimed in an interview.
