A Ray of Hope during Covid-19: ChapChap
As many Ugandans shop for supplies amid the coronavirus outbreak, concerns have circulated about whether handling cash could contribute to the spread of the virus. Some outlets reported that you should use contactless payment methods instead of paper money.
Cash is notoriously covered in germs; studies suggest that paper bills can contain bacteria and viruses, plus lead to the spread of disease. In order to support less contact with cash Chap Chap believes that merchants can rely on them!
ChapChap is a digital platform that helps small businesses balance the books and keep track of transactions all from their very own smartphone. This platform gives business owners access to affordable financial products in the palm of their hand. Tracking of inventory and stock management is made easy by the application and also helps business owners to avoid wasted spend and wasted produce.
They can also evaluate sales performance, ultimately optimizing their profits. And by making everything digital, they don’t need to store reams of paper. Better still, having reliable, digital business records opens the door to financial inclusion, and market access through electronic commerce. This is a lifeline for many businesses, giving them access for the first time to affordable credit as well as new customers.
“Following the guidelines of the Ministry of Health guidelines, merchants are able to receive digital payments for goods and services rather than handling cash as it increases the risk of infections especially during this pandemic. In addition, as the economy winds down, businesses must capitalize on all avenues that exist to make money, during this period merchants can earn extra income by bringing digital products and services closer to the population.” Christian Wamambe the CEO of ChapChap Africa stated.
Another important security measure that has been emphasized by the government is social distancing. Subscribers of the Chap Chap application are able to purchase airtime, data and pay their TV, water and electricity bills from the comfort of their living room without the need for human contact as well as handling cash.
So far, ChapChap has helped more than 6,500 businesses in Uganda to improve their performance management and increase their revenues. The company now aims to extend its reach across the country and beyond with countries like Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda and Nigeria.
Author: Justine Nansubuga Andrea (Member success associate at Outbox)
