About Us
Transforming Payments and eCommerce Services in SA Townships
In the heart of South African townships, where traditional banking infrastructure is sparse and cash remains predominant, Phakama Marketplace emerges as a transformative force, reshaping the landscape of digital payments and ecommerce.
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Our Vision
Our vision is to create an inclusive and digital township economy in South Africa and beyond.
Our Mission
To empower township businesses and consumers with innovative financial solutions that drive economic growth and foster inclusivity.
Impact
At Phakama, we envision a future where digital financial services are not just a convenience but a fundamental right for all South Africans.
Leveraging Technology
By leveraging technology and a deep understanding of local needs, we are paving the way for inclusive economic growth and empowerment in underserved communities.
Signed Up Businesses
Alliance Partners
Number of Townships
Consumers
Our Business
Traders
Over and above payments services, we are committed to addressing the challenges faced by township businesses, such as limited access to suppliers and financial solutions. Through our platform, Traders will soon:
- Have access to services such as digital ordering at discounted rates through bulk buying.
- Have ordered stock Delivered at their doorstep or pick up at a local distribution centre.
- Manage stock Digitally.
- Access linkages with Wholesalers.
- Apply for financial solutions like credit to refill stock.
Current value for Traders
- Accept Scan2Pay Payments at 0% Transaction Fees
- Settle funds directly to your bank account anytime
- Professional Online Business Profile
- Upload up-to 5 Gallery Images on your Business Profile
- Track Digital Transactions for Financial Inclusion
- Promo and Specials Posts to your Business Followers
- Increased Customer Base
- Add unlimited staff member to accept payments to your business wallet
- Download and display your business QR code for your customers
- Publish your business pricelist for the convenience of your customers
Consumers
Find and pay at Spaza Shops, Beauty Salons, Car Washes, Shisanyamaz, Shebeens, Tarvens, Liquor Shops, Restaurants, Home Based Chefs, Home Based Beauticians, Supermarkets, Petrol Stations, Events, Kasi Accommodation, Taxi, etc. in the township where you live or are visiting Emzansi. Other benefits include:
- Download and register as a user for Free.
- Scan2Pay directly from your bank card using the Phakama app and save on fees!
- Scan2Pay directly from your Phakama wallet and save even more on fees!
- Easy Cashout to any bank account of your choice.
- Top-up your wallet from your bank account via EFT for free.
- Top-up your wallet from a bank card from any mainstream bank in South Africa.
Gallery
Mthokozisi Mthembu
Owner of Mthoko's & Fast Food, Umlazi
Since joining Phakama, my business has experienced a real transformation. We no longer have to rely on cash-only transactions, and with the digital payment system, I now serve my customers more efficiently.
Thando Mseleku
Umlazi Resident
Phakama is incredibly convenient. The app is simple and quick, and I feel I will be more in control of my finances.
Zodwa Duma
Founder of Zodwa's Cosmetics, KwaMashu
The no transaction fees is convenient and available packages are transparent and affordable, and the system has been reliable. It is nice to know that my business is now part of a movement that’s empowering local communities.
Mandla Khumalo
Business Development Manager, YGB Association
Partnering with Phakama allows us to extend our reach and empower township entrepreneurs with the tools they need to grow their businesses.
Ben Malatsi
Johannesburg Resident
Can't wait for the app services to come to Katlehong.
Selby Vilakazi
Entrepreneur, Umlazi
I am now showcasing my business to local residents and accept digital payments easily, which will attract more customers. It’s definitely going to help my business grow.
Pricing
Free Plan Available with Limited Features
1 Month Plan
For special occasions i.e. Events, short-term sales, etc.
R129
Register Now- 0% Transaction Fees
- Settle funds to any bank account anytime
- Professional Online Business Profile
- Up-to 5 Gallery Images on your Business Profile
- Digital Transactions Tracking for Financial Inclusion
- Increased Customer Base
- Promo and Specials Posts to your Business Followers
- Add Unlimited Businesses
- Add Unlimited Staff Members
- Free Business QR Codes Download
- Free Staff QR Codes Download
- Upload and Publish Price List for each Business
6 Months Plan
Get 30% off when you enter a Partner ID.
R600
Register Now- 0% Transaction Fees
- Settle funds to any bank account anytime
- Professional Online Business Profile
- Up-to 5 Gallery Images on your Business Profile
- Digital Transactions Tracking for Financial Inclusion
- Increased Customer Base
- Promo and Specials Posts to your Business Followers
- Add Unlimited Businesses
- Add Unlimited Staff Members
- Free Business QR Codes Download
- Free Staff QR Codes Download
- Upload and Publish Price List for each Business
12 Months Plan
Get 30% off when you enter a Partner ID.
R780
Register Now- 0% Transaction Fees
- Settle funds to any bank account anytime
- Professional Online Business Profile
- Up-to 5 Gallery Images on your Business Profile
- Digital Transactions Tracking for Financial Inclusion
- Increased Customer Base
- Promo and Specials Posts to your Business Followers
- Add Unlimited Businesses
- Add Unlimited Staff Members
- Free Business QR Codes Download
- Free Staff QR Codes Download
- Upload and Publish Price List for each Business
Popular
Lifetime Access
Get 30% off when you enter a Partner ID.
R995
Register Now- 0% Transaction Fees
- Settle funds to any bank account anytime
- Professional Online Business Profile
- Up-to 5 Gallery Images on your Business Profile
- Digital Transactions Tracking for Financial Inclusion
- Increased Customer Base
- Promo and Specials Posts to your Business Followers
- Add Unlimited Businesses
- Add Unlimited Staff Members
- Free Business QR Codes Download
- Free Staff QR Codes Download
- Upload and Publish Price List for each Business
Fees
| Payment method (EFT & Card) | Rate (Excl. VAT) |
|---|---|
 |
1.5% for wallet payments |
 |
2.5% of transaction value |
 |
3.5% for direct card payments |
Frequently Asked Questions
If you don’t find what you are looking for below please contact us via our contact number or email address above, or get in touch via the chat box to your bottom right.
Who is Phakama and what services does it offer?
Phakama is a pioneering Fintech start-up dedicated to creating an inclusive and digital township economy in South Africa and beyond. Our mission is to empower underserved communities including local Traders and Consumers through innovative financial solutions that drive economic growth and inclusivity. These include and are not limited to mobile money, wallet, payments services, Value Added Services, micro-loans, local e-commerce, marketplaces, etc.
Does Phakama only service the township market and is not available outside townships?
Phakama is open for use by all South African residents regardless of their locations, with a special focus on serving the township economy, as our primary goal is to empower unserved and underserved communities with access to digital financial services.
Is Phakama only available to South Africans and not to foreign nationals?
Phakama is available to both South African citizens and foreign nationals who are legally registered with Home Affairs and hold valid visas.
Is Phakama accessible to people of all ages and how does one join the network?
Phakama is accessible to anyone whose age is 16 years or older. To join, both Traders and Consumers can simply download the app from iOS, Android, or App Gallery app stores and follow the easy registration steps.
Are my personal and financial details safe with Phakama?
Yes, we take your security seriously. We use industry-standard encryption protocols and multi-factor authentication to protect your personal and financial data. We also comply with regulatory standards to ensure that your information is safe and secure.
How does one load funds and get them out of the wallet as cash?
You can pay directly from your card by adding your card details on your account on the app OR load funds into your Phakama wallet through direct EFT using Ozow OR directly from any bank card from a registered bank in South Africa. You can cashout to any bank account. Soon, Traders will be empowered to process cashin and cashout transactions, making it more easier and convenient to load funds and cashout without needing a bank account.
Are there any fees or charges involved for consumer users of the technology?
Consumers are charged a small 3.5% fee when paying with cards and 1.5% when paying with wallet funds.
Are there any fees or charges cashout transactions?
Yes users are charged a fixed R5.75 VAT Inclusive when making EFT cashout transactions, with an additional R43 for Real Time Clearance (RTC) transactions if account is not with Standard Bank.
Is it possible to transact with businesses that are not part of the Phakama ecosystem using the technology?
Currently, it’s not possible to transact with businesses outside the Phakama ecosystem. We will soon introduce Tap2Pay, which will allow consumers to make Tap2Pay payments at POS machines even if the business is not part of the Phakama ecosystem.
Partner With Us
Already have a network of Traders that you would like to refer to our platform? Collaborate with us, create much needed jobs, get paid well and become part of our growing network of partners. We work with associations, NGOs, private companies, and individuals who share our vision for inclusive growth.
Become a PartnerContact
Address
3rd Floor Convention House,
125 Bram Fisher Road,
North Beach,
Durban 4001
Call Us
+2778 166 8533
Email Us
info@phakama-marketplace.co.za