Africa Bitcoin Conference: 5 Individuals Deported, 4 from Benin and 1 from Nigeria

The Africa Bitcoin Conference is taking place in Mauritius from December 3 to 5, 2025. During her opening speech on December 3 at the Caudan Arts Centre, Executive Director Farida Nabourema expanded the discussion by presenting Bitcoin as a tool for economic autonomy for the continent. However, the event was marred by an unexpected diplomatic incident.

According to Farida Nabourema, five participants—four from Benin and one from Nigeria—were denied entry at Mauritius airport despite having valid documents, secure accommodation, and return tickets. "They weren’t even allowed to explain why they were there," she lamented, denouncing what she termed "harassment" and a notable difference in treatment compared to European or American visitors.

The young African engineers spent nearly a day stranded, without food, before being deported. Beyond the financial losses, Farida Nabourema emphasized the trauma experienced by these innovators who came to showcase their technologies.