The purchase of data and airtime through WhatsApp is now possible in South Africa courtesy of the partnership between MTN and Ozow - an instant EFT solution provider.
“Giving customers the ability to transact seamlessly on WhatsApp is a game changer in South Africa. It provides a seamless way to stay connected, in touch and in tune, while being simple and secure. Most importantly it will help improve financial and digital inclusion and enhance access for consumers.” MTN SA Executive of Corporate Affairs, Jacqui O’Sullivan.
Customers can access the service within the MTN Chat platform and initiate the purchase of airtime and data bundles within their WhatsApp chat.
“We are excited about partnering with MTN to make it even easier for customers to be able to safely purchase airtime and data directly from the WhatsApp chat on the spot, anywhere and at any time,” Ozow co-founder and CEO Thomas Pays.
South Africa joins the growing list of countries where actual payments can be made using WhatsApp. Examples of countries include India and Brazil. "Our aim, according to O'Sullivan, is to ensure South Africans do not miss out on major advances in technology and have the latest cutting-edge solutions at their fingertips so they can enjoy the full benefits of the digital life."
Using the service for the first time? This is how it works;
- Add the number 083 123 0011 to your contacts and save as 'MTN Chat'
- Send a WhatsApp message to “MTN Chat” saying “hello”
- Select “buy airtime”
- Select payment option to “Pay with Ozow”
- Enter number to recharge
- Enter amount to recharge
- Click Ozow link
- Take Ozow payment journey and complete payment
South Africa in focus
GDP: $351.432 billion compared to Tanzania's $63.177 billion in 2019
Population: 58,588,267 compared to Tanzania's 58,005,463 in 2019
GDP per capita: $11,433 compared to Tanzania's $1,122 in 2019
