Day one was packed with incredible sessions that explored what it really means to build, contribute to, and sustain open-source software. From practical advice on getting started in Bitcoin open source and becoming a better code reviewer, to discussions on making software more hackable and user-modifiable, there was something for everyone, regardless of where they are in their journey.
We also dove into the technical side of Bitcoin and Lightning, exploring topics like improving Lightning infrastructure security, enhancing privacy in Taproot transactions, modern testing and fuzzing techniques in Bitcoin Core, and implementing features such as Replace-By-Fee in Lightning applications.
AI was another major theme throughout the day, with speakers examining both the opportunities and trade-offs of using AI in open-source development. Conversations ranged from how AI can support contributors to the cognitive costs that come with relying too heavily on these tools, and what that means for the future of open source.
There were also important discussions around building technology for African realities, closing the gap between contributor and founder, improving payment experiences across the continent, and exploring emerging technologies like Nostr and secure enclaves.
Proud to see several Btrust grantees and team members take the stage, including Sulaiman Aminu Barkindo, Abiodun Awoyemi, Kelvin Isievwore, Abdullahi Yunus, Frankline Omondi, and 👩💻 Rita Anene, sharing their work and contributing to these important conversations.
And that was just day one. Stay tuned for updates from the following days.
