Classifieds have been around for a very long time now, and they just might be the oldest marketplace we have in the country. Let’s take a deep dive into what makes Classifieds by Web Dev a unique and valuable platform for Zimbabweans.
UI (User Interface)
Navigating the Classifieds site is a breeze. The design is intuitive and visually appealing, with a clean layout that makes finding what you need straightforward. Categories are well-organized, and the search function is robust, allowing users to filter results effectively. Whether you’re looking for housing, groceries, the site’s user-friendly interface ensures you can find what you need without hassle. The site is packed with content, making it an ideal marketplace for you to shop. The variety of products available is one of the platform’s strong points, providing users with numerous options to choose from. One of the standout features of Classifieds is that the site is not filled with annoying ads. Instead, they have their own marketing service where people can pay for ad slots. This system is a great advantage as opposed to using Google Ads, as it ensures that the ads are relevant and non-intrusive. This also helps keep the site clean and user-friendly, enhancing the overall browsing experience.
Performance
The site’s performance is impressive, especially for its size. Loading times are quick, and the elements on the page load faster than many other marketplace websites. According to Google Pagespeed Insights, Classifieds scores well, meaning users won’t experience frustrating delays while browsing or making purchases. This performance edge is crucial for maintaining a pleasant user experience.
Market Size
The platform boasts a large and active user base, with many buyers and sellers regularly engaging in transactions. This extensive market size ensures that you’re likely to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s a rare item or something more commonplace. The bustling activity on the site also means that sellers have a good chance of reaching a wide audience.
Exclusive Feature: Dating Platform
This is a Classifieds exclusive. I mean, we have seen others like Zimjolo try to do it and yes, I did mention this before in my previous article, but Classifieds really did it. It’s impressive. And like I mentioned before, the dating platform isn’t that famous, and I don’t think it will be because of how we do things here in Zimbabwe, but a great thanks to Classifieds for trying. It’s sort of like drifting away from their purpose, but it shows their willingness to innovate and try new things.
Conclusion
Classifieds is one of the marketplace websites we must utilize completely as Zimbabweans. The site’s safe, fast, and fully packed with products to buy from various sellers. Its user-friendly interface, strong performance, and extensive market size make it a top choice for online shopping. While the exclusive dating platform might not be a hit, the effort to diversify is commendable. As we continue to support and use platforms like Classifieds, we contribute to a more vibrant and connected marketplace in Zimbabwe and soon enough.
Today, I want to talk about a significant change in the Zimbabwean online shopping scene, specifically concerning the Pindula Marketplace, and yes, this is not the first time. As we’re restarting the Zimbabwean Marketplace website series, I thought it would be great to restart with the ones we covered before. So some of you might remember it as a bustling hub for all sorts of goods, from clothing and electronics to homeware and more and like I said, I wrote an article about ‘that’ Pindula Marketplace. Well, those days are gone. Let’s dive into what’s happened to Pindula Marketplace and how it’s affecting us all.
The Old Pindula Marketplace
For those who aren’t familiar, the Pindula Marketplace used to be a vibrant platform where you could find a wide range of products. It was like our very own Amazon, sort of :). Sellers from all over Zimbabwe listed their items, and buyers had the convenience of shopping for anything and everything from the comfort of their homes. It was particularly handy for those who wanted to support local businesses. You could find unique items and get them delivered right to your doorstep. Ah, the good old days!
What’s Changed?
Fast forward to today, and Pindula Marketplace has undergone a radical transformation. Now, you can only buy gadgets, and they’re limited to a few specific brands: Samsung, itel, and Tecno. This drastic change happened last year, but I’m only writing about it now because I’m restarting my Zimbabwe Marketplace Series, revisiting platforms I had reviewed the first time around.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s new:
Limited Product Range: Gone are the days when you could browse through a variety of products. Now, it’s strictly gadgets from Samsung, itel, and Tecno.
Simplified Purchase Process: You no longer need to create an account. To buy a gadget, all you need to do is enter your name, phone number, and address. However, there’s a catch – they only deliver within Harare. This lack of support for other cities is quite frustrating.
Payment Methods: You can pay using EcoCash, OneMoney, InnBucks, or opt for cash on delivery. A $5 delivery fee applies to every order.
Final Thoughts
The new Pindula Marketplace feels like a shadow of its former self. While it’s great that you can easily buy gadgets from top brands, the lack of variety, limited delivery area, and the overall reduction in service are hard to overlook. It’s a disappointing turn of events for what was once a great marketplace.
Let’s hope that in the future, Pindula will consider broadening its offerings again and bringing back the vibrant marketplace that many of us came to rely on.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more tech updates. Also, if you haven’t yet, enable notifications so you never miss out on the latest posts from Tino Talks Tech!
Remember my earlier articles about the top e-commerce platforms in Zimbabwe? Well, I’m back for another round, but this time, I’m taking a deeper dive.
Why the change of heart? Let’s just say that I got complacent and ended up drifting away from my objective, and I wasn’t able to give these platforms the attention they deserve. But I’ve been following the e-commerce scene closely, and it’s clear that things have been evolving rapidly. New players have emerged, existing ones have evolved, and the overall landscape is far more dynamic than it was before.
So, consider this a reboot of my original series. Over the next few weeks, I’ll be revisiting some of the platforms I covered previously and introducing you to some new ones. I’ll be looking at everything from user experience and product selection to payment options and delivery services. And of course, I’ll be sharing my honest opinions and insights along the way.
To ensure a great assessment, I’ll be using a set of criteria to evaluate each platform(if applicable):
UI (User Interface): How easy is it to navigate the site? Is the design intuitive and visually appealing?
Performance: Does the site load quickly? Are there any glitches or bugs?
Accessibility: Is the site accessible to users with disabilities?
Market Size: How many buyers and sellers are active on the platform?
Product Selection: Is there a wide variety of products available?
Customer Support: Is customer support responsive and helpful?
Pricing: Are the fees and commissions reasonable?
I’m excited to embark on this journey of rediscovering Zimbabwe’s e-commerce landscape. I hope you’ll join me as I share my findings and insights. And as always, if you have a marketplace you’d like me to review or additional criteria you’d like me to consider, feel free to reach out through the contact form on this site.
Disclaimer: Nope, eBay didn’t pay me to write this though they’re welcome to 🙂 This is purely a result of my borderline-unhealthy obsession with saving money on cool tech. Consider it a public service announcement for your wallet’s sake.
Let’s face it, tech can be a drain on the wallet. Sure, Amazon throws around “deals” left and right, but often these are from commercial sellers focused on maximizing profit. The discounts rarely stray far from the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (RRP). So, where can the budget-minded shopper turn for the latest tech without breaking the bank?
Enter eBay, a marketplace teeming with possibilities for the savvy buyer. Unlike Amazon, the majority of sellers on eBay are regular folks looking to declutter their digital lives. This can be a double-edged sword, but with a little know-how, you can unearth serious savings on coveted gadgets.
One reason people flock to eBay as sellers? Unwanted gifts. Let’s be honest, who hasn’t received a gadget they didn’t particularly love? Imagine, for instance, an Android user like myself being gifted a brand new iPhone. It’s a thoughtful gesture, but ultimately, that iPhone is going straight to eBay (sorry, Apple!). This isn’t to say these gifts are useless; they just might not be the perfect fit for the recipient. For you, however, that unwanted iPhone could be the key to unlocking a high-end phone at a fraction of the cost.
Promotions can also lead to a glut of gadgets on eBay. Think about it: right now, buying a Samsung Galaxy S24 might get you a free tablet. But what if you already have a perfectly good (and bigger!) tablet at home? That freebie becomes instant seller material. These savvy consumers have secured a great deal on their phone, and you reap the benefits by getting a practically new tablet at a significantly lower price. It’s a win-win situation.
Then there are the impulse buyers. We’ve all been there. You see a shiny new console with next-gen graphics and mind-blowing features, get swept up in the hype, and bring it home. Only later do you realize your trusty PC handles all the games you truly care about, and that work keeps you glued to your desk anyway. Guess what? That barely-used console is about to find a new home (hopefully yours at a fraction of the price!). This isn’t to knock the console itself; it’s just a matter of finding the right gadget for the right user. eBay provides a platform for these barely-touched devices to find a second life with gamers who might not be able to afford the hefty price tag at launch.
The potential savings on eBay can be significant, with discounts reaching up to 50% off retail prices. However, there’s a crucial caveat: you need to be a discerning shopper. Since you likely won’t be meeting the seller face-to-face, assessing credibility is paramount. Look for detailed product descriptions that go beyond generic marketing speak. Clear photos showcasing the condition of the item from multiple angles are essential. Proof of originality, such as receipts or original packaging, can also give you peace of mind. Be wary of sellers offering “refurbished” items without a clear explanation of what parts were replaced or if the device has even been opened. A little healthy skepticism can go a long way in protecting your hard-earned cash.
Finally, a decent return policy is your safety net. If something seems off upon receiving the item, you want the peace of mind of being able to send it back. Many eBay sellers offer generous return windows, but it’s always wise to check the specific policy before committing to a purchase.
Beyond Price: Advantages of the Pre-Owned Market
But wait, there’s more! Shopping pre-owned on eBay offers advantages that extend beyond just price. Don’t get me wrong, Amazon also has it’s Amazon Renewed Program where you get renewed tech for less just like on eBay, but that’s a story for another day. For environmentally conscious consumers, it’s a way to reduce e-waste by giving a pre-loved gadget a new lease on life. You’re also more likely to find unique items or vintage tech that wouldn’t be available through traditional retailers. Perhaps you’re a photography buff with a hankering for a classic film camera. eBay(and also Amazon, oh and not forgetting Back Market.) is a treasure trove for such niche interests.
The Importance of Research
Of course, with great potential rewards comes the need for responsible shopping habits. A little research goes a long way on eBay. Start by familiarizing yourself with average pricing for the tech you’re interested in. This will help you spot unrealistic deals that might be too good to be true. Online review platforms can be your friend here, offering insights from previous buyers on the seller’s reputation and the quality of their products.
Reading the product description carefully is crucial. Does the seller mention any cosmetic blemishes or functionality issues? Are there high-quality photos that clearly show the item from all angles? It’s also wise to contact the seller directly with any specific questions you might have. Their responsiveness and willingness to provide additional information can be a good indicator of their trustworthiness.
Remember, some extra vigilance will pay off when navigating marketplaces like eBay. Check out the seller’s ratings and reviews from previous buyers. These provide valuable clues about their communication style, shipping speed, and the overall customer experience they offer. And don’t be afraid to negotiate! Many sellers are open to reasonable offers, especially if they’re motivated to move an item quickly.
While price is certainly a key factor, consider the full picture. Does the seller have a generous return policy in case the device isn’t the perfect fit? Can they provide proof of purchase or original packaging to ease any worries about authenticity? Take all of these elements into account when making your decision.
Ultimately, with smart shopping practices and a little patience, eBay can be your gateway to tech treasures at prices that fit your budget. The thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of scoring an amazing deal are just added bonuses!
And if you’re curious about the capabilities of Artificial Intelligence, head over to my new project, Tino Talks Tech AI. This blog is brimming with content crafted entirely by various AI models, showcasing the fascinating potential of this ever-evolving technology. Let’s explore the future of tech, together!
The introduction of ZiG notes is also seen as a way to modernize the country’s financial system, promote economic growth, and attract investment by providing a currency that is less susceptible to external shocks and inflationary pressures. By tying the value of ZiG to the international gold price, the government aims to ensure that the currency retains its purchasing power and facilitates smoother domestic transactions.
This initiative is not Zimbabwe’s first attempt to address its economic crisis through currency reform. However, the government is hopeful that the gold-backed ZiG notes will mark a turning point in the country’s economic fortunes.
The imminent phase-out of the Zimbabwean dollar (ZWL) and the introduction of the new ZiG notes have indeed sparked a spectrum of reactions among the public. With the ZWL set to be phased out in just 21 days, there’s a palpable sense of urgency as people prepare to transition to the new currency. The mixed reviews from the public reflect a blend of cautious optimism and skepticism.
On one hand, some citizens view the ZiG as a potential solution to the economic instability that has long affected Zimbabwe, hoping that the gold backing will provide the much-needed stability. On the other hand, there’s a significant portion of the populace that remains doubtful, given the country’s history with currency reforms.
The change also has profound implications for the mobile money industry and e-commerce, sectors that have become increasingly important in Zimbabwe. The transition period will be critical for these industries to adapt to the new currency, ensuring that their systems can handle ZiG transactions without disrupting services.
As a Zimbabwean, I share the mixed emotions of my fellow citizens. While I am hopeful for a positive outcome, I remain watchful of how the ZiG will be implemented and received in the coming days.
The Implications: A Multifaceted Landscape
The QR code on the ZiG specimens has been a topic of much discussion. While QR codes are a common security feature on banknotes, designed to combat counterfeiting, the simplicity of the code revealed on the ZiG specimens—merely displaying
Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe ZiG(value) Harare 2024
has raised concerns. If the final bills retain this basic QR code, it could potentially be exploited by counterfeiters, undermining the currency’s integrity and the public’s trust in it.
QR Code data from a zig200 note
The implications of the new ZiG notes on mobile money and e-commerce are significant. The transition to ZiG is expected to impact the way transactions are conducted, with a shift towards digital currency that could streamline payments and reduce transaction costs. However, it also necessitates updates to existing mobile money platforms to accommodate the new currency and ensure secure transactions. For e-commerce, the introduction of ZiG could mean faster and more reliable payment processes, but it also requires robust cybersecurity measures to protect against fraud and maintain consumer confidence in online shopping. As we move forward, it’s essential for the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe to address these security concerns and ensure that the digital infrastructure is ready to support the ZiG, fostering a safe and efficient economic environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the introduction of the ZiG notes by the Zimbabwean government is a significant economic development that has the potential to reshape the country’s financial landscape. While the move is driven by a desire to stabilize the economy and restore confidence in the national currency, it has been met with mixed reactions from the public.
The implications for the mobile money and e-commerce sectors are profound. These industries must adapt quickly to the new currency, ensuring that their systems are secure and capable of handling ZiG transactions. Personally, I am cautiously optimistic about the potential of the ZiG notes to bring about positive change. However, I also recognize the challenges ahead and the importance of a well-thought-out implementation strategy to ensure the success of this currency reform.
In the digital age, having an online presence is crucial. Whether you’re starting a blog, opening an online store, or creating a business website, the process can seem daunting. Well fear not, this detailed guide will walk you through each step, from purchasing a domain to launching your site, all while keeping costs low.
Step 1: Securing Your Domain Name
What is a Domain Name?
Think of a domain name as your online property’s street address. It’s how visitors find you among the millions of websites on the Internet. When choosing a domain, aim for something memorable, relevant to your content, and easy to type like mine, tinotenda.co.
Where to Purchase Your Domain
For international audiences, Namecheap offers a wide range of TLDs at competitive prices. If you’re in Zimbabwe, WebZim caters specifically to your local needs. Prices for domains start as low as a few dollars per year for options like .xyz or .online, making them accessible for anyone on a tight budget and you can also get .com or .net on Namecheap with discounts up to 75% on your first purchase.
Step 2: Understanding and Choosing Web Hosting
Defining Web Hosting
Web hosting is essentially renting space on a server where your website’s files live. Without hosting, your site won’t be accessible to others.
The Importance of Web Hosting
Good hosting ensures your website loads quickly, remains secure, and can handle the traffic you’ll receive. It’s a foundational element of your website’s success.
Hosting Providers
While there are many hosting providers out there, Truehost Nigeria stands out for its affordability. I personally use Truehost (not the Nigerian branch) for its reliability and customer service.
Add products, descriptions, and high-quality images.
Set up payment gateways and shipping options.
WooCommerce
Integrate e-commerce into your WordPress site with WooCommerce:
Install the WooCommerce plugin.
Choose a theme like Storefront that’s built for online stores.
Customize product pages, checkout processes, and customer accounts.
Utilize additional plugins for marketing and sales analytics.
For Business Websites
WordPress is also excellent for creating a professional business website:
Install WordPress and choose a premium theme like Divi or Avada for advanced features or the free ones I mentioned before.
Design your homepage to make a strong first impression.
Develop clear navigation for your services, about page, and contact information.
Integrate plugins for appointment booking, customer testimonials, and live chat support.
Upcoming In-Depth Reviews
Stay tuned for comprehensive reviews on each type of website mentioned in this guide. I’ll cover the nuances of blogging platforms, e-commerce solutions, and business website best practices to help you make informed decisions for your online journey.
By following this guide, you’re well on your way to creating a website that not only looks professional but is also budget-friendly. Remember, the Internet is vast, and there’s a place for everyone. With some patience and creativity, you’ll carve out your own corner in no time.
Sasai was once hailed as Zimbabwe’s first and leading super app, a global social payments and digital marketplace platform that aimed to improve the overall quality of life for all Africans. Launched in 2019 by Cassava Fintech International, a subsidiary of Econet Wireless, Sasai offered a range of services such as money transfer, bill payment, chat, music streaming, gaming, and more. It was available in over 50 African countries and supported 40 languages, including local dialects.
Sasai seemed to have a promising future, especially after partnering with some of the continent’s leading brands such as DStv, Kwese, and Showmax. It also claimed to have over 5000 low-cost and free Wi-Fi hotspots across Africa, as well as a feature that allowed users to earn money by watching ads on the app. Sasai’s vision was to become the “WeChat of Africa”, a reference to the Chinese super app that has over a billion users and offers a variety of services from social media to e-commerce.
However, despite its ambitious goals and impressive features, Sasai failed to gain traction among the African users. According to the Google Play Store, Sasai had only 500,000+ downloads as of September 2022, a far cry from its target of 100 million users by 2020. The app also received mixed reviews from the users, who complained about its poor user interface, frequent crashes, high data consumption, and lack of customer support. Some users also questioned the security and privacy of the app, as it required access to many permissions and personal information.
So, what went wrong with Sasai? Why did it not live up to its hype and potential? There are several possible reasons for its downfall, such as:
Competition: Sasai faced stiff competition from other established and popular apps in the African market, such as WhatsApp, Facebook, M-Pesa, Jumia, and Uber. These apps already had a loyal and large user base, and offered similar or better services than Sasai. Sasai also had to contend with the dominance of mobile network operators, who controlled the access and pricing of data and voice services in most African countries.
Complexity: Sasai tried to do too many things at once, without focusing on its core value proposition and differentiating factor. It was not clear what problem Sasai was trying to solve, or what benefit it was offering to the users. Sasai also lacked a clear and consistent branding and marketing strategy, as it used different names and logos in different countries and platforms. Sasai’s app was also cluttered and confusing, with too many features and options that overwhelmed and frustrated the users.
Culture: Sasai failed to understand and adapt to the diverse and dynamic needs and preferences of the African users. Sasai assumed that what worked in China or other markets would work in Africa, without conducting proper research and testing. Sasai also ignored the local context and realities of the African countries, such as the low internet penetration, high data costs, low smartphone adoption, and regulatory challenges. Sasai also did not engage with the local communities and stakeholders, such as developers, merchants, influencers, and media, to build trust and awareness.
Sasai’s story is a cautionary tale for any aspiring or existing app developer or entrepreneur who wants to succeed in the African market. It shows that having a good idea and a lot of resources is not enough, if you do not understand your target audience and deliver value to them. It also shows that being a super app is not a goal in itself, but a result of solving a specific problem and satisfying a specific need. Sasai may have been a super app in theory, but it was not a super app in practice.
Tisitano has emerged as a promising marketplace app connecting buyers and sellers across various categories. In this part of the series are going to look at Tisitano focusing on its design, speed and content to gauge its overall effectiveness as usual
Design
Tisitano boasts a sleek and user-friendly design allowing users to navigate the app effortlessly which is their greatest strength. The intuitive interface ensures that both buyers and sellers can easily understand and utilize its features. The clean layout and well-organized categories make it quick and simple to find products of interest. The inclusion of high-quality product images and detailed descriptions further enhances the overall user experience.
Speed
One of the crucial aspects of any marketplace app is its speed as slow loading times can deter users and negatively impact the overall user experience. Fortunately Tisitano performs exceptionally well in this aspect. The app loads quickly and efficiently minimizing waiting times and ensuring smooth browsing. This seamless experience encourages users to spend more time exploring the platform ultimately leading to increased engagement and better business opportunities. I for one was impressed by Tisitano’s speed but Google’s Pagespeed Insights thought the exact opposite. Or it’s just the website. Maybe. Below are the results. Had to shorten them this time but anyways, you can get an idea.
Content
A crucial aspect that sets Tisitano apart is its wide range of products and diverse content. The app accommodates various categories including electronics household items fashion vehicles and real estate among others. This diversity ensures that users have access to a wide array of options making it more likely to find what they are looking for. Additionally Tisitano allows sellers to create detailed product listings including descriptions pricing and contact information improving transparency, a business card for sellers and facilitating smoother transactions.
Furthermore Tisitano’s content management ensures only legitimate and verified sellers can list products. This helps to maintain a secure and reliable marketplace where users can confidently buy and sell without concerns about fraudulent activities. The built-in messaging system allows for direct communication between buyers and sellers facilitating negotiations and inquiries.
Conclusion
In conclusion Tisitano is a well-designed marketplace app that provides a range of features to enhance the buying and selling experience.
Classifieds have been around for a very long time now and they just might be the oldest marketplace we have in the country. The brand has been evolving till it reached the point it is now, the way their logo has been transforming till now says it all.
Content
Classifieds features a lot of amazing content found within different categories. From housing to groceries, they have it all. Their site is packed with content which makes it an ideal marketplace for you to shop.
Dating Platform
This is a classifieds exclusive. I mean we have seen others like Zimjolo try to do it but classifieds really did it, it’s impressive. The dating platform isn’t that famous, and I don’t think it will be because of how we do things here in Zimbabwe but a great thanks to classifieds for trying.
Speed
The site’s got some pretty decent speed for one of it’s size. Personally, I find no problem in the site’s loading speed and the elements load faster than other marketplace websites. Here’s the Google Pagespeed Insights test results:
Conclusion
This is one of the marketplace websites we must utilize completely as Zimbabweans. The site’s safe, fast and fully packed with products to buy from various sellers. One notable feature of the site is the 18+ Dating Platform which has just been introduced.
Exactly 10 days after my last article, I return and we continue our marketplace website series, this being day 4. My apologies for being away for the past 10 days, I was working on my portfolio, tino.co.zw which I’m happy to announce that it’s finally online.
As I promised , day 4 will be about Ownai since I was supposed to write about it on day 3.
Ownai is a Cassava Smarttech startup that has almost everything a Zimbabwean would look for in a marketplace. Yeah I gotta break it to you, I’m impressed. Ownai comes with the normal marketplace look whilst including it’s own features. Let’s dig in deeper.
How you can find them
Ownai has a website, ownai.co.zw and mobile apps for both Android and iOS available on their respective stores.
The UI
Ownai comes with a great and usable UI which has a few notable flaws. Firstly the site takes a lot of time to load, displaying it’s preloader on all of the products on the home screen, which drives away potential impatient customers, which is bad. Even the Google Pagespeed Insights test proved this as the site only got a positive result on SEO, you can see for yourself.
Judging by the results, Ownai has a lot to improve. Upon my first trial to view the site, I came across the annoying preloaders but I had to wait for it to load, although it took a lot of time. For someone who’s used to Netone’s bad reception, I thought it was because of my network but after the Pagespeed Insights results, I became certain it wasn’t because of my network. Here’s the screenshot of the specific section.
Content
It’s perfect. That’s what I can say briefly as Ownai comes with perfectly categorized and grouped content. Which I really loved. Their menu has it all, under the correct categories. They even have a gaming category, where you’ll get some of the most popular PC games for sale. See, it’s perfect!
Conclusion
Ownai has a lot of products available for sale from various sellers too. Their site is perfectly stocked and categorized. The only flaw with Ownai is the time it takes loading, but it’s not really long though. So if you’re looking for a marketplace to sell your products, or to buy something you’re looking for, Ownai is the perfect choice.
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