USSD, SMS, WhatsApp and Call Center Set Up & Pricing in DRC.
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the telecommunication sector is a key part of daily life with more than 44 million mobile phone users as of recent data. Internet penetration stands at around 22%, meaning nearly 20 million people have access to the internet. However, many Congolese still rely on USSD for essential services due to the limited internet coverage in rural areas. USSD codes are especially popular for banking, mobile money transfers, and checking mobile balances. Common USSD codes include *111# for Vodacom services and *124# for Airtel mobile money. Companies like Vodacom, Airtel, and Orange are the major players using USSD in the DRC. WhatsApp and SMS marketing are prevalent in the DRC, with businesses using these platforms to reach customers directly. The rise of smartphones has fueled the use of WhatsApp, while SMS remains a strong channel due to the high mobile penetration.
In DRC, the telecommunications landscape offers various SMS services, each governed by DRC's specific regulations. Short codes, popular in DRC for services like mobile banking, require approval from DRC's national communications authority. DRC's businesses can use marketing SMS for promotions, but must adhere to DRC's registration and consent requirements. Transactional SMS in DRC face less stringent rules but must comply with DRC's data protection laws. Premium Rate Services SMS in DRC, which charge users for content, typically need a license from DRC's regulatory body and must follow DRC's pricing transparency guidelines.
WhatsApp's popularity in DRC stems from WhatsApp's data efficiency in areas with limited internet. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication for DRC's users. The WhatsApp API Cloud enables DRC'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 DRC. The WhatsApp API Cloud allows DRC'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 DRC
DRC leverages USSD technology for interactive, menu-driven services that operate without internet, crucial for DRC's digital inclusion efforts. In DRC, USSD facilitates mobile banking, public service delivery, and information access, serving both urban and rural populations through its compatibility with basic phones. DRC's telecom regulator oversees USSD short codes, ensuring fair access across mobile networks and adhering to DRC's specific numbering plan. Despite growing smartphone adoption, USSD remains vital in DRC 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.
CDF
570,000
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.
CDF
97
USSD Dedicated Code (Setup)
A dedicated USSD code is a unique short code assigned to a specific organization or service provider. A dedicated USSD is similar to *123#
CDF
2,846,000
Voice (IVR) pricing in DRC
DRC's voice service landscape is rapidly evolving, with call centers emerging as hubs for both local support and international outsourcing, capitalizing on DRC's multilingual workforce. Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems in DRC are bridging literacy gaps, providing critical information in local dialects for health, agriculture, and government services. DRC's adoption of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is reshaping business communication, though it faces regulatory challenges as DRC balances innovation with traditional telecom interests. As DRC 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.
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