USSD, SMS, WhatsApp and Call Center Set Up & Pricing in South Africa.
In South Africa, telecommunication is well-developed with approximately 96 million mobile phone subscriptions as of early 2024. This high number reflects the widespread use of mobile phones across the country. Internet penetration is also significant, with around 60% of the population having access to the internet, enabling robust digital interactions. USSD is widely used in South Africa, offering a convenient method for accessing various services without needing a data connection. Popular USSD codes include *120# for checking account balances and *130# for accessing mobile data services. Major companies using USSD include MTN, Vodacom, and Cell C, providing essential services such as balance inquiries and prepaid top-ups. WhatsApp and SMS are popular tools for marketing in South Africa. Businesses leverage WhatsApp for customer service and promotional messages due to its high engagement rates. SMS marketing is also prevalent across industries.
In South Africa, the telecommunications landscape offers various SMS services, each governed by South Africa's specific regulations. Short codes, popular in South Africa for services like mobile banking, require approval from South Africa's national communications authority. South Africa's businesses can use marketing SMS for promotions, but must adhere to South Africa's registration and consent requirements. Transactional SMS in South Africa face less stringent rules but must comply with South Africa's data protection laws. Premium Rate Services SMS in South Africa, which charge users for content, typically need a license from South Africa's regulatory body and must follow South Africa's pricing transparency guidelines.
SMS Sent (Per)
Bulk SMS is used for marketing, alerts, and customer communication. SMS is cost-effective and has higher open rates than email.
ZAR
0.24
WhatsApp pricing in South Africa
WhatsApp's popularity in South Africa stems from WhatsApp's data efficiency in areas with limited internet. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication for South Africa's users. The WhatsApp API Cloud enables South Africa'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 South Africa. The WhatsApp API Cloud allows South Africa'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 South Africa
South Africa leverages USSD technology for interactive, menu-driven services that operate without internet, crucial for South Africa's digital inclusion efforts. In South Africa, USSD facilitates mobile banking, public service delivery, and information access, serving both urban and rural populations through its compatibility with basic phones. South Africa's telecom regulator oversees USSD short codes, ensuring fair access across mobile networks and adhering to South Africa's specific numbering plan. Despite growing smartphone adoption, USSD remains vital in South Africa for its universal accessibility, helping bridge the digital divide and spurring innovation in sectors ranging from agriculture to healthcare.
USSD Shared Code (Monthly)
The fee is charged to keep the shared USSD code active. This is charged per telco.
ZAR
1,000
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#
ZAR
4,200
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.
ZAR
0.50
Voice (IVR) pricing in South Africa
South Africa's voice service landscape is rapidly evolving, with call centers emerging as hubs for both local support and international outsourcing, capitalizing on South Africa's multilingual workforce. Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems in South Africa are bridging literacy gaps, providing critical information in local dialects for health, agriculture, and government services. South Africa's adoption of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is reshaping business communication, though it faces regulatory challenges as South Africa balances innovation with traditional telecom interests. As South Africa 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.
Voice - Outgoing Call (Per Sec)
Making calls from your virtual phone numbers incurs a routing and connection cost.
ZAR
0.00045
Voice - Incoming Call (Per Sec)
Receiving calls to your virtual phone numbers incurs a routing and connection cost.
