Kotani Pay: Increasing access to financial instruments using blockchain and cryptocurrency

KotaniPay is a middleware technology service that enables users to access the blockchain and cryptocurrencies via Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD). USSD is the primary mode of the mobile interface for a majority of the population in developing countries.

The solution leverages USSD technology to connect feature phone users and low-end smartphones to blockchain networks. The advantage is that there is no need for storage space on the user's phone, no need for an internet connection and no learning curves needed to use the solution. Kotani Pay allows users to off-ramp from crypto using a simple interface that does not require the use of public and private keys. This interface does not require an internet connection. This makes it easy to use on a feature phone and low-end smartphone. Just by dialing a short code such as *384*483# users get a menu that allows them to transact, converting crypto to fiat easily. Funds are moved from their blockchain wallet to their mobile money wallet.

During the investment period, Kotani Pay will integrate with telcos and exchanges, build partnerships with gigwork platforms (such as Fuzu), and develop payment infrastructure. They aim to reach 50K users by 2022. ​