Developers wrote in an email that the Africa-focused decentralized banking platform Mara announced the launch of a testnet for its future Mara Chain, a layer 2 network compatible with Ethereum that charges fees in MARA tokens.On the Mara Chain, which is the Optimism fork, developers in Nigeria and elsewhere in Africa can create and test decentralized applications.The Mara Wallet, which enables users to trade and withdraw both fiat money and tokens, was just released, and it is the network that follows.
“Blockchain technology has become a necessary utility and infrastructure that is critical and essential to the development of every country, similar to electricity or the internet,” said Chi Nnadi, CEO of Mara, in an email. “Opportunities abound in Africa that can be harnessed using blockchain as a technology to deliver widespread utility for African people.”
Before a genuine launch, developers can test applications and the blockchain for any flaws or deficiencies on networks called testnets that mirror real-world blockchains.Sub-second transactional speeds, minimal gas costs, and compatibility with other Optimism-based networks are a few advantages the Mara Chain developers have highlighted.Before the mainnet launch, developers claimed Mara is constantly looking for feedback from the developer community and partners to enable continued platform improvement.
“By actively engaging with users, Mara aims to strengthen collaboration and create a supportive ecosystem that nurtures the growth of blockchain applications,” a Mara chain representative shared. “There are tangible rewards, bounty grants and development grants for those who work to advance and enhance the capabilities of the Mara Chain.”