By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Pictures: Supplied – FNB
Seen Here: Panelists Lebo Lion, Brand Strategist First National Bank (FNB), Lytania Johnson, CEO of the Personal Segment at First National Bank (FNB), and Faye_Mfikwe, Chief_Marketing_Officer, First National Bank (FNB), participate in the eWallet Evolution Panel Discussion, highlighting the launch of eWallet on WhatsApp and its role in expanding digital financial inclusion in South Africa. Photo Credit: Supplied.
In a significant step toward expanding financial inclusion, First National Bank (FNB) has introduced its popular eWallet service on WhatsApp, enabling millions of South Africans to access digital financial services without the need for a traditional bank account.
The enhanced platform allows users to send, receive, pay, borrow and purchase services directly through WhatsApp, creating a seamless digital entry point into formal banking services for the unbanked, underserved and underbanked population.
A Simpler Path Into Digital Finance
Previously, an eWallet could only be created when an FNB account holder sent money to another person. With the new development, customers can now create their own eWallet directly via WhatsApp, eliminating the need to wait for an existing FNB user to initiate the process.
The new service uses WhatsApp as a low-data, familiar communication platform, making it particularly accessible to people who rely on basic smartphones or have limited access to traditional banking infrastructure.
According to Lytania Johnson, CEO of the FNB Personal Segment, the enhancement represents an important milestone in the bank’s ongoing strategy to expand digital banking access.
“For over a decade, eWallet has enabled millions of South Africans to send and receive money safely and conveniently,” Johnson said. “This evolution strengthens that foundation by introducing a more seamless, secure and intuitive digital wallet for customers who need simple and affordable solutions.”
Seen Here: Event Mcees, (Left) Skhumbuzo ‘Skhumba’ Hlophe, (Right) Seipati Twasa Seoke. Photo Credit: Supplied.
eWallet’s Growing Role in South Africa’s Digital Economy
The new functionality builds on the strong adoption of eWallet across South Africa. Over the past year alone, customers sent more than R43 billion through the platform, with 69 million transactions processed, highlighting its position as one of the country’s most widely used digital money transfer services.
The expansion also aligns with South Africa’s broader payments modernisation strategy, including interoperability with platforms such as PayShap, which enables real-time payments between participating banks.
By integrating eWallet with modern payment infrastructure, FNB aims to reduce reliance on cash while expanding access to the digital economy.
Seen Here: (Left) Lytania Johnson, FNB’s Personal Segment CEO, (Right) Faye Mfikwe, Chief Marketing Officer FNB. Photo Credit: Supplied.
Everyday Banking Through WhatsApp
The enhanced eWallet platform introduces several features designed to simplify everyday financial transactions for users.
Customers can now:
- Create their own eWallet account directly on WhatsApp
- Send and receive money instantly
- Make real-time payments using PayShap
- Buy electricity, airtime and entertainment vouchers
- Withdraw cash at major retailers
- Borrow small cash advances ranging from R50 to R500
- Pay bills and make payments at fuel stations and selected retail outlets
Cash withdrawals are available at major retail partners including Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, PEP, Ackermans and selected SPAR stores.
Users can also withdraw funds at spaza shops and agency outlets, further extending access within township and rural communities.
Technology Designed for Inclusion
According to Hema Morar, FNB eWallet Executive, the platform’s design prioritises speed, security and accessibility.
“At its core, eWallet is about dignity, access and possibility,” Morar explained. “Whether it’s a parent sending money home, a young person taking their first step into digital banking or a small business owner transacting safely, these enhancements are designed to make everyday financial management easier.”
The service remains accessible through multiple channels, including USSD and the FNB mobile app, ensuring customers can transact regardless of the type of device or connectivity they have.
Advancing Financial Inclusion
For many South Africans, especially those in informal or cash-based economies, access to simple digital financial tools can significantly improve financial security and economic participation.
Johnson believes that initiatives like the WhatsApp-enabled eWallet can play a transformative role in strengthening household resilience.
“When financial inclusion becomes the norm, households become more resilient, opportunities grow and nations advance,” she said.
With the latest enhancement, FNB aims to bring millions more South Africans into the formal financial system, while providing a convenient, affordable and future-ready platform for everyday financial transactions.
