Ten years ago, four friends came together with a simple idea: how do we help small businesses accept card payments and thrive? Like many entrepreneurs, we started scrappy – testing, learning, and often stumbling along the way. But with the support of our community, we’ve grown into South Africa’s largest independent payment platform, now serving more than 200,000 merchants.

At the heart of Yoco has always been one belief: entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of our economy. And we’re entrepreneurs ourselves – we know the road isn’t always straight. The skills it takes to launch a business are different from the ones needed to scale it. That’s why today, we’re entering a new chapter.

Katlego Maphai, who has led Yoco as CEO since the very beginning, will be stepping down from his role. He’s not stepping away – Katlego will remain deeply involved in the business, focusing on initiatives that expand Yoco’s impact and help entrepreneurs grow.

Reflecting on the journey, Katlego shared:

"Yoco was built on a simple belief: when small businesses thrive, South Africa thrives. Over the past decade, we’ve seen that belief come to life in extraordinary ways. I’m deeply proud of what we’ve created together, and I’m excited to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible for entrepreneurs in this next chapter."

Taking the reins as co-CEOs are fellow founders Lungisa Matshoba and Bradley Wattrus. Lungisa will focus on innovation-led growth, ensuring Yoco continues to build products that empower entrepreneurs to thrive in a fast-changing world.

As Lungisa put it:

“Entrepreneurs are navigating a world that shifts faster every day. My job is to make sure Yoco stays ahead of that curve - to turn complexity into simplicity, and to give small businesses the kind of tools that don’t just help them keep up, but help them grow with confidence.”

Bradley will focus on governance and scalability, strengthening the foundations that will allow Yoco, and the businesses we serve, to grow with confidence. 

In Bradley’s words:

“As Yoco grows, so does our responsibility to the merchants who trust us. My role is to build strong, reliable foundations that entrepreneurs can depend on – so they can grow their businesses with confidence, knowing Yoco has their back.”

Carl Wazen, co-founder and Chief Business Officer, will continue to lead go-to-market and marketing efforts.

Carl shared his perspective: 

“Our merchants are the heartbeat of their communities. In an increasingly complex world, they continue to show up with creativity, resilience and ambition. This next chapter is about deepening our trust with the small business community - and unlocking even greater opportunities for them to thrive.”

As co-founders and as a team, we’re united in ensuring that this transition is one of strength, continuity, and opportunity. The spirit of Yoco remains unchanged: built by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs.

To our merchants, thank you for trusting us with your businesses. The next chapter is about building bigger and better opportunities for entrepreneurs everywhere. We’re excited to continue this journey with you.

Media Enquiries: Ann-Mari Höfinger +27 61 476 3478