link - http://appfrica.net/blog/2010/04/01/zimbabwe-switches-to-linden-dollars/ According to Wikipedia, “the economy of Zimbabwe collapsed from economic mismanagement, resulting in 94% unemployment and hyperinflation. Inflation has surpassed that of all other nations at over 80 sextillion(1021)% (although it is impossible to calculate an accurate value), with the next highest in Ethiopia at 41%. It currently has the lowest GDP real growth rate in an independent country and 3rd in total (behind Palestinian territories.)” Today, with an awe inspiring announcement, virtual world startup Second Life has announced an unheard of deal to bail out the Zimbabwean economy with it’s virtual currency, Linden Dollars. This is the first time in history a virtual economy has come to the aid of a real one. Second Life creator Philip Rosedale made the stunning announcement via a virtual press conference after inviting the world media to join him for a surprise April unveiling. “Today, Second Life has truly accomplished something. When my company created this virtual world, we always envisioned it could be a force for good. Last month I met with Zimbabwean officials and we both agreed that to help stabilize their economy, we’d offer them a 0% interest loan of 1.3 trillion Linden Dollars (about 5 billion U.S.). We will also assist them in their transition to rebuild their economy on our currency, The Linden.” Behind him stood Second Life’s chief economic officer, Paul Gitner, who’s avatar was a giant eggplant wearing a ‘Go Zim!’ TShirt. “This is a time for real celebration. It’s a big day for the Linden dollar and a new direction for this beautiful country.”