Seithati Motšoeneng
VODACOM Lesotho has unveiled a groundbreaking expansion of its M-Pesa mobile money service, making it accessible to all mobile users in the country, regardless of their network provider.
This move is set to revolutionize financial transactions, particularly in the local fashion industry, by eliminating previous network restrictions and enabling every designer, boutique owner, and fashion enthusiast to seamlessly engage in the digital economy.
This initiative reinforces Vodacom’s commitment to democratizing financial services, ensuring that M-Pesa’s convenience, security, and reliability are available to a wider audience. By removing the need to be a Vodacom Lesotho subscriber, the company is empowering fashion entrepreneurs, enabling easier transactions, and fostering a more inclusive business environment.
During the launch event yesterday, Vodacom Lesotho’s Chief Executive Officer, Mohale Ralebitso, highlighted the transformative potential of this expansion.
“As M-Pesa matures into its teenage years, we are proud to amplify its benefits to more Basotho, including those in the fashion sector. This expansion is a major step towards an inclusive digital future for Lesotho. We also plan to leverage M-Pesa’s credit scoring capabilities to support entrepreneurs who may not traditionally qualify for credit from banks,” Mr Ralebitso said.
For fashion designers and boutique owners, access to M-Pesa means simplified financial management, from receiving payments for custom designs to purchasing materials from suppliers. This ease of access allows small business owners to thrive without being hindered by traditional banking barriers.
VCL Financial Services Managing Director, Palesa Mphunyetsane, emphasized the company’s dedication to removing barriers to financial inclusion.
“Accelerating financial inclusion means actively dismantling obstacles to access. Since M-Pesa’s launch in 2013, we have championed universal financial access. While this ‘All Access’ initiative initially focuses on smartphone users, we are already developing solutions to ensure that even those without smartphones can benefit from M-Pesa’s convenience in the near future,” Ms Mphunyetsane said.
With the rise of digital fashion marketplaces and social media sales, mobile money services like M-Pesa are essential tools for the industry. Entrepreneurs can now conduct transactions swiftly and securely, whether they are selling garments on Instagram, launching online boutiques, or sourcing fabrics from international suppliers.
M-Pesa’s Digital Channels Manager, Sebolelo Polasi, encouraged new users to take advantage of the simplified registration process.
“Registering for M-Pesa is now easier than ever. Users can download our app from the Google Play Store, enter their mobile number, full name, and ID number, and they’ll be ready to enjoy seamless mobile money services. This means instant transactions for fashion businesses, from customer payments to supplier purchases,” Ms Polasi said.
