VodaPay, Vodacom’s so-called “Super App”, is a unique digital shopping app with which users can pay for a variety of goods and, to some degree, manage their finances. It’s been in development for a while with a soft launch back in June aimed at devs and businesses. Now the app is live for all.
Say hey to VodaPay
VodaPay is, in essence, a digital wallet. Users can load their money into the wallet and transfer it to each other as they please, or use it to purchase from businesses that support the app, such as KFC, Clicks, Makro and Builders Warehouse. They can also use it to buy things like electricity and airtime. Users can also load their SA bank cards into the app and use them directly.
The service also boasts zero transaction fees and is thankfully paperwork free, making it, “ less cumbersome and [more] convenient for those who need to send money, shop and spend.”
VodaPay isn’t just building itself on the consumer-end either. Businesses can sign up with the app and build their own programs into it, allowing them to enter the realms of e-commerce. Normally, this can be a pretty expensive undertaking, particularly with regard to technical development and marketing. VodaPay’s offering is apparently without major cost, and plugs new businesses into an existing user base. It’s also zero-rated, so data costs for businesses are of no concern either.
“I am pleased that we are unveiling VodaPay to consumers,” reads a statement from Vodacom CEO Shameel Joosub. “[It] will help us drive both digital and financial inclusion in the country, especially for those who were previously unable to access financial services. We want to make sure that all South Africans, no matter their income status, network provider or geographical location can use the app.”
VodaPay is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store now, and is open to users from any network despite its Vodacom branding. Vodacom users do enjoy special offers on data and airtime though. All users have access to a range of exclusive deals and specials, such as goods and services for R1 and up to 70% discounts. A lot of these deals are tied to the app’s launch, so if you’re interested you should go take advantage of them before too long.
