In today’s fast-moving world, convenience is no longer a luxury, it is a necessity.
The way emaSwati shop, send money and pay for daily essentials has changed dramatically over the past few years. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, forced many of us to rethink how we handle cash, queue in stores and access financial services.
Safety, speed and simplicity quickly became priorities.
It was during this challenging period that SBS responded with innovation. Understanding the need for secure, contactless and accessible banking solutions, the organisation introduced ePocket; a virtual wallet designed to help customers store and access money in a safe and convenient way.
What began as a timely response to a global crisis has now evolved into a practical everyday financial tool for individuals across the country. SBS ePocket currently allows customers to access cash, buy airtime and data bundles, purchase electricity and pay water bills, all from their mobile device.
This interoperability ensures that sending and receiving money across platforms is seamless.
Taking convenience a step further, SBS has introduced a new functionality known as ePocketPay.
Manager Digital Services Sandile Langa explained: “In enhancing our customer experience, a new functionality has been unveiled, which allows ePocket account holders to make payments over the counter at registered merchant till points. This service is called ePocketPay.”
With ePocketPay, customers can now pay for groceries at a supermarket or purchase building materials at their favourite hardware store directly from their mobile device, no bank card or cash required.
Importantly, SBS has ensured inclusivity by making the service available via the USSD Mobile Banking channel (*800#).
This means even customers without smartphones can access the service. Langa added that USSD sessions are sponsored by SBS, allowing customers to use the service even without airtime.
“This is how SBS is meeting customers in making banking affordable,” he said.
Customers are encouraged to look out for visible SBS branding at participating store entrances to identify ePocketPay merchants.
Merchant codes and transaction steps are also displayed at till points for ease of use.This is banking made easy, practical, inclusive and built for everyday life. For more information, contact the SBS Contact Centre on 2404 1313 or email info@sbs.co.sz
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