BY TANDZILE DLAMINI
BUHLENI – A number of handcraft traders at Buganu 2026 are taking steps to modernize their businesses by adopting digital payment solutions, making shopping easier for tourists and customers who do not carry cash.
Futhi Mhlanga, a well-known trader from the Manzini Handcraft Market, is marking her seventh year at Buganu and reports a strong uptick in sales. To ensure smooth transactions, Mhlanga offers card payments through her Nedbank Speedpoint, allowing customers to purchase her hand-crafted items quickly and securely. She noted that while most customers appreciate the convenience, some remain hesitant and fear scams, highlighting the ongoing challenge of building trust in cashless systems.
Mhlanga’s initiative reflects a wider trend across Eswatini, where Nedbank Eswatini is ensuring that traders, even in traditional markets and cultural events, are not left behind in the digital economy. Speedpoints are becoming a standard tool, enabling local businesses to operate efficiently, reduce cash handling, and appeal to a broader customer base, including domestic visitors and international tourists.
Other traders at Buhleni are following suit, recognizing the importance of embracing technology while maintaining the integrity of their products and services. Digital payments also provide faster transactions, accurate records, and safer operations, particularly in crowded market settings.
By integrating cashless solutions, Buganu traders are not only improving convenience for customers but also strengthening the competitiveness of their businesses. The move demonstrates how traditional markets can adapt to modern financial tools without compromising the quality and authenticity of their offerings.
As more traders adopt digital payments, Eswatini’s local businesses are proving that innovation and tradition can go hand in hand, paving the way for more inclusive and efficient commerce across cultural events.
#EPN #Buganu2026 #SupportLocal #ManziniHandcrafts #NedbankEswatini #SwatiTradition #CashlessPayments
