At Jubilee Crossing in Hammanskraal, 37-year-old Praise Moeng runs her tabletop business selling Forever Living products and Inuka fragrances. What started out as a side venture in 2019—sparked by seeing a friend succeed—has grown into a steady source of income.
Like many small traders, however, Praise’s early journey had its challenges.
At first, she only accepted cash payments. This meant regular trips to the bank to deposit money before she could place bulk orders online, costing her time and transport money. Carrying cash also posed risks - mostly of counterfeit notes and theft.
“I had to be careful all the time,” she recalls. “You never know if the money is real, and also if you are safe.”
A shift to digital
Praise first heard about digital payments at a community meeting linked to the pilot in Hammanskraal. Curious about its benefits, she decided to try it and later also took part in the Digi-Smart Market.
The shift was almost instant.
More of her customers started paying her via EFT and PayShap, which was convenient and increased her trust in digital payments. With payments going directly into her account, Praise no longer needed to travel to the bank as often. She started saving money and reduced her risk exposure.
“Now it’s easier. I don’t have to carry cash, and I can focus more on my business,” she says.
Building confidence in a digital system
Even though digital payments have improved her operations, the change has had its challenges.
Praise experienced instances where customers would send her a fake proof of payment. However, with the knowledge gained through training and support from financial institutions, she now verifies transactions before releasing her products.
She is aware of digital risks, like losing her device or falling victim to fraud.
Despite this, her confidence continues to grow.
“With the training I received, I understand how to check payments and protect myself. I know I can use these platforms properly,” she explains.
Unlocking further opportunity
Praise sees even more potential in digital tools. Access to a point-of-sale device that supports multiple payment options—from e-wallets and cards to automated invoicing—would help her save time, streamline orders, and reach new customers.
“It would be a do-it-all solution,” she says. “Everything in one place.”
A message to other entrepreneurs
For Praise, digital payments are no longer optional—they are necessary for growth.
Her advice to other small business owners? Digital payments help grow your market. They provide data to help you make informed decisions and are convenient for customers.
“Don’t get left behind,” she says.
Why it matters
Praise’s story is another example of the broader shift among informal traders in Hammanskraal. With the right support, tools and knowledge, digital payments are helping small businesses reduce their risks and open new opportunities for growth.
