USSD, SMS, WhatsApp and Call Center Set Up & Pricing in Benin.
Benin has 12.7M mobile users and 52% internet penetration. USSD services are highly popular in Benin due to their accessibility. Common USSD codes include *200# for checking mobile balances, *202# for recharging credit, and *303# for accessing mobile banking services. Key companies utilizing USSD in Benin include MTN, Moov, and Glo, offering a range of services from balance inquiries to financial transactions. WhatsApp and SMS are vital tools for marketing in Benin. Businesses use these platforms to engage with customers, share promotions, and provide updates. For example, local businesses in sectors like retail, services, and education leverage WhatsApp for customer support and SMS for marketing campaigns.
In Benin, the telecommunications landscape offers various SMS services, each governed by Benin's specific regulations. Short codes, popular in Benin for services like mobile banking, require approval from Benin's national communications authority. Benin's businesses can use marketing SMS for promotions, but must adhere to Benin's registration and consent requirements. Transactional SMS in Benin face less stringent rules but must comply with Benin's data protection laws. Premium Rate Services SMS in Benin, which charge users for content, typically need a license from Benin's regulatory body and must follow Benin's pricing transparency guidelines.
SMS - Brand Name
A unique identifier used in SMS messaging to display the sender's name or brand instead of a phone number e.g DOMINOS. Does not allow for 2 way messaging on SMS. Cost per Telco.
NONE
Free
Two Way SMS (Set-up)-Dedicated
A dedicated code for just the procurer.
XOF
350,000
SMS - Two Way (Per Month)
A short business phone number used by businesses to send and receive text messages. A company might use the shortcode 12345 for promotions or customer service. Customers can text this number to join.
XOF
42,000
SMS Sent (Per)
Bulk SMS is used for marketing, alerts, and customer communication. SMS is cost-effective and has higher open rates than email.
XOF
10
WhatsApp pricing in Benin
WhatsApp's popularity in Benin stems from WhatsApp's data efficiency in areas with limited internet. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication for Benin's users. The WhatsApp API Cloud enables Benin's businesses to scale customer interactions, while WhatsApp's wide adoption makes it ideal for customer service. WhatsApp's compatibility with lower-end smartphones promotes digital inclusion across Benin. The WhatsApp API Cloud allows Benin's companies to implement chatbots and integrate systems, supporting business growth even in regions with unstable connections.
WhatsApp (Per 24hr Session)
WhatsApp Business platform employs a conversation-based pricing model, charging businesses for each conversation within a 24-hour period. Conversations are categorized as service, utility, authentication, or marketing, with varying prices based on the category and the customer's country code Learn more on WhatsApp billing.
USD
0.0225
WhatsApp (Setup)
A one time set up charge to to cover the initial technical configuration, custom development, and client onboarding process.
USD
49
USSD pricing in Benin
Benin leverages USSD technology for interactive, menu-driven services that operate without internet, crucial for Benin's digital inclusion efforts. In Benin, USSD facilitates mobile banking, public service delivery, and information access, serving both urban and rural populations through its compatibility with basic phones. Benin's telecom regulator oversees USSD short codes, ensuring fair access across mobile networks and adhering to Benin's specific numbering plan. Despite growing smartphone adoption, USSD remains vital in Benin for its universal accessibility, helping bridge the digital divide and spurring innovation in sectors ranging from agriculture to healthcare.
Dedicated USSD Code (Monthly)
This fee is charged per month to keep the USSD code active and is charged per Telco.
XOF
250,000
USSD Usage Postpaid (Per dial)
This is the cost per USSD session. A session starts when a user dials the code on their phone, and the flat rate is charged to the business in postpaid pricing.
XOF
3
Voice (IVR) pricing in Benin
Benin's voice service landscape is rapidly evolving, with call centers emerging as hubs for both local support and international outsourcing, capitalizing on Benin's multilingual workforce. Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems in Benin are bridging literacy gaps, providing critical information in local dialects for health, agriculture, and government services. Benin's adoption of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is reshaping business communication, though it faces regulatory challenges as Benin balances innovation with traditional telecom interests. As Benin leapfrogs legacy systems, voice technologies are enabling unique solutions like mobile money authorization via voice biometrics and community radio integration with IVR for wider information dissemination.
