BUSINESS NEWS - Digital payments are becoming an increasingly familiar part of everyday transactions in South Africa.

Although cash remains widely used, consumers are increasingly expecting businesses to offer convenient digital payment options. 

This shift is prompting many small businesses and informal traders to explore digital payment solutions – and creating opportunities for people who can help them understand and use the technology.

According to Thulani Ngwenya, Managing Director of AltarPOS, digital literacy is becoming an increasingly valuable skill as South Africa’s economy continues to evolve.

“South Africa’s digital economy continues to grow, but many small businesses are still navigating the transition to digital payments,” Ngwenya said.

“While digital skills are not a solution to unemployment, they can create practical opportunities for people to support businesses while building valuable experience and generating an income.”

Ngwenya identifies five areas where digital payment skills can create value.

1. Helping businesses adopt digital payments

Small businesses, informal traders and community organisations are increasingly introducing digital payment options in response to changing customer expectations.

People with a sound understanding of digital payments can assist business owners in understanding how different systems work and how they can be incorporated into daily operations.

This could include helping businesses understand basic payment processes and ensuring staff are comfortable using the technology.

2. Building practical digital skills

Knowledge of QR-code payments, payment confirmations, transaction records and settlement processes can provide individuals with practical digital skills relevant to today’s business environment.

These skills can also complement other forms of digital literacy and potentially strengthen employability in workplaces where technology plays an increasingly important role.

3. Helping business owners build confidence

For some business owners, adopting new technology is as much about confidence as it is about the technology itself.

People who can explain digital payment processes clearly and answer basic questions can help business owners become more comfortable with new ways of accepting payments.

This support can make the transition less intimidating, particularly for smaller businesses with limited technical resources.

4. Improving day-to-day operations

Digital payments can provide customers with greater convenience, reduce reliance on cash and create clearer electronic records of transactions.

People who understand these systems can help business owners recognise how digital payments may fit into their existing operations and support more informed day-to-day decisions.

5. Providing ongoing support

Introducing a digital payment system is not necessarily a once-off process.

Business owners may continue to need assistance understanding payment notifications, transaction records and basic operational procedures as they become familiar with the technology.

Individuals with practical knowledge can potentially provide ongoing support while gaining experience in working directly with small businesses.

A growing need for practical digital skills

Ngwenya said the continued adoption of digital payments highlights the importance of practical digital skills across South Africa’s economy.

“As businesses continue to digitise, there is increasing value in people who can help bridge the gap between technology and everyday business operations,” he said.

“Digital adoption is not only about technology; it is also about building confidence and ensuring that businesses can use these tools effectively.”

While digital payment skills are not a complete solution to South Africa’s unemployment challenge, they represent one potential way for individuals to participate in the country’s growing digital economy while supporting small businesses and the informal sector.

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