Tip of the week: Make it easy to pay by mobile money

Customers who want to buy but cannot pay easily will leave. In Tanzania, many people use M-Pesa, Tigo Pesa and Airtel Money daily, and some barely carry cash. Accepting mobile money removes a major barrier.

Display your payment number or business till clearly, with the registered name so customers can check before sending. A small sign near the counter saves repeated questions.

Check each payment before you hand over goods. Wait for the confirmation message on your phone and read the amount and sender name. Do not rely on a screenshot, because these can be faked.

Record every payment the same day, so your daily total matches your phone and your cash. It also protects you if a customer later says they paid twice.

Ask your mobile money provider's agent or office about the options for business accounts and current charges, as these change.

This week: put a clear payment sign at your counter and check each payment message before releasing goods.