How Mobile Money Works

To start using mobile money services, you'll first need to complete the registration process. Please be aware that this process requires your personal appearance at an authorised outlet or service point for whichever service you've selected. Unfortunately, online registration is currently not supported. Despite this, the procedure is simple and user-friendly.

During this process, you will need to present a valid form of identification and provide some essential personal information, such as your postal and residential address. Once the registration is successful, an account associated with your mobile number will be set up instantly.

Each mobile money service offers its customers the option to apply for and receive a Visa card linked to their account. The Visa Card is one of the most widely accepted payment methods globally. By having a Visa card linked to their mobile money account, users gain access to a vast network of merchants and online platforms that accept Visa payments.

Users who own a Visa card can enjoy multiple benefits, such as:

• Withdrawing cash from ATMs for easy access to funds. Note that the card can be used locally or internationally wherever the Visa card is accepted.

• Making payments at point-of-sale terminals, facilitating seamless transactions at retail outlets, restaurants, and other merchants that accept Visa payments.

• Performing online transactions, enabling users to shop online and pay for goods and services from the comfort of their own homes.

Managing your mobile money account is primarily conducted through your mobile device. This functionality allows you to monitor essential details such as:

• your account balance

• transaction history

• account settings

Additionally, it allows you to perform various financial tasks like:

• processing payments

• applying for micro-loans

• transferring funds

• and alot more

The account interface can be accessed through the USSD menu or via an online platform or application for smartphones.

The USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) menu is a widely favored and highly convenient method for managing mobile money accounts. Users access the USSD menu by dialing the specific USSD code associated with their mobile money service (e.g *123#). It presents a simplistic, yet highly comprehensible user interface that is extremely user-friendly. In terms of reliability, the USSD menu is renowned for its robust stability, rarely experiencing crashes or system downtime. Thus, it works quickly and effectively in helping users complete their desired transactions.

Its distinguishing feature that sets it apart from other services is its capability to function without an internet connection. This combination of convenience and efficiency continues to make it a preferred choice among mobile money users.

To conduct mobile money transactions through an app, you must first download and install the relevant application on your device. Internet connectivity is essential for using the app.

• Mascom Online: Users of MyZaka have the flexibility of accessing their accounts through the Mascom Online platform. This platform is readily available in various formats - there is an Android App, an Apple App and is also directly available through the website.

• Orange Max It App: Users of Orange Money can conveniently access their accounts through the Orange Max It App. This app is compatible with both Android and Apple devices.

• Smega App: Users of Smega can easily access their accounts through the Smega App. This app has compatibility with both Android and Apple devices.

One of the fundamental aspects of mobile money is the ability to 'Cash In', which equates to depositing money into your account. This is possible via an authorised mobile money agent or through a bank transfer.

• Cash In Through Authorised Agents: Mobile money agents are conveniently located in our neighborhoods and can be found in a wide range of locations, from well-established shops to small roadside stalls. With this broad network of agents at your disposal, topping up your mobile money account is a quick, simple and hassle-free procedure.

• Transfer Funds From Bank Account: Mobile money services provide a fantastic facility that allows you to transfer funds from your bank account directly into your mobile money account. This incredible feature is currently compatible with a number of prominent banks in Botswana, including Standard Bank, Access Bank, First Capital and ABSA. So, if you are a customer of these banks, you have the benefit of easily transferring money from your bank account to your mobile money account. The process can be executed using your bank's internet banking or mobile app.

If you wish to withdraw money from your mobile money account, you can select from one of two easy options:

• Cash Out Through Authorised Agents: This option involves visiting an authorised agent near you. Once there, you can request to withdraw your funds. Please bear in mind that your mobile device is essential for validating the withdrawal transaction. When prompted, input your secret code to continue. After the transaction is approved, the agent will hand over the requested cash. Additionally, an sms containing details of the transaction and your updated balance will be sent to you.

• Withdraw Cash Via an ATM Using a Visa Card: If you can't locate an authorised agent nearby, there's no need to worry. You can conveniently withdraw your money from any ATM, utilizing a Visa Card linked to your mobile money account. International withdrawals should also be possible—just look for ATMs displaying the Visa logo, and you should be able to withdraw.