[2016-11-15] UNICEF Just Invested in its First Blockchain Startup

[PHPSELLER]

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has invested in a South African blockchain startup as part of a broader technology innovation push.

UNICEF indicated in February that it was looking to fund projects focused on the tech through an innovation fund launched last year. At the time, UNICEF said it was looking at the areas of digital identity and remittances as possible areas of investment, and UNICEF later moved to hire a point person on blockchain.

Read More: http://www.coindesk.com/unicef-just-invested-first-blockchain-startup/

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[buwaytress]

I've got mixed feelings about this. On one hand, it's certainly good to see the non-profit (okay, I know this is the UN but nevertheless) view blockchain as another possible solution for the developing world. On the other, these types of tech are hardly accessible to those it aims to benefit, unless of course, the benefits of this blockchain startup are meant to go to UNICEF administration.

[panju1]

Using the term 'invest' rather than 'fund' seems wrong in this context.
That said, it is fortunate that the UN sees the potential of the blockchain in solving problems in its mandate area - child and family welfare.