A Russian cryptocurrency payment system, A7, has expanded into Nigeria and Zimbabwe as of April 2026, marking a strategic pivot toward Africa amid Western sanctions. The move follows Russia's exclusion from the SWIFT network after the Ukraine conflict, accelerating the adoption of alternative cross-border payment solutions.

A7, developed in 2024 by sanctioned entities Ilan Șor and Promsvyazbank, leverages cryptocurrency to bypass traditional banking channels. Despite its announced operations in Lagos and Harare, local crypto participants remain skeptical, with few confirming active usage. The Financial Times reports lingering concerns over the system's viability given its ties to sanctioned actors.

The expansion underscores a broader shift toward decentralized finance in regions facing financial isolation. Yet, the lack of verifiable on-the-ground activity raises questions about A7's traction. Africa's growing crypto market presents both opportunity and risk for such ventures, balancing innovation against regulatory scrutiny.