USSD, SMS, WhatsApp and Call Center Set Up & Pricing in Uganda.
Uganda's telecommunications sector has shown steady growth in recent years. As of this year, the country has about 28 million mobile subscribers, representing a penetration rate of around 70%. Internet usage has increased, with approximately 18 million users, or about 40% of the population. Mobile money services are popular, with MTN Mobile Money and Airtel Money being key players. USSD remains widely used for various services. While 4G coverage has expanded in urban areas, rural connectivity remains challenging. The government is working to improve infrastructure and increase digital literacy. WhatsApp and SMS marketing are gaining traction among businesses.
In Uganda, the telecommunications landscape offers various SMS services, each governed by Uganda's specific regulations. Short codes, popular in Uganda for services like mobile banking, require approval from Uganda's national communications authority. Uganda's businesses can use marketing SMS for promotions, but must adhere to Uganda's registration and consent requirements. Transactional SMS in Uganda face less stringent rules but must comply with Uganda's data protection laws. Premium Rate Services SMS in Uganda, which charge users for content, typically need a license from Uganda's regulatory body and must follow Uganda'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.
UGX
250
SMS Sent (Per)
Bulk SMS is used for marketing, alerts, and customer communication. SMS is cost-effective and has higher open rates than email.
UGX
19
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.
UGX
65
WhatsApp pricing in Uganda
WhatsApp's popularity in Uganda stems from WhatsApp's data efficiency in areas with limited internet. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication for Uganda's users. The WhatsApp API Cloud enables Uganda'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 Uganda. The WhatsApp API Cloud allows Uganda'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 Uganda
Uganda leverages USSD technology for interactive, menu-driven services that operate without internet, crucial for Uganda's digital inclusion efforts. In Uganda, USSD facilitates mobile banking, public service delivery, and information access, serving both urban and rural populations through its compatibility with basic phones. Uganda's telecom regulator oversees USSD short codes, ensuring fair access across mobile networks and adhering to Uganda's specific numbering plan. Despite growing smartphone adoption, USSD remains vital in Uganda for its universal accessibility, helping bridge the digital divide and spurring innovation in sectors ranging from agriculture to healthcare.
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#
UGX
1,100,000
Voice (IVR) pricing in Uganda
Uganda's voice service landscape is rapidly evolving, with call centers emerging as hubs for both local support and international outsourcing, capitalizing on Uganda's multilingual workforce. Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems in Uganda are bridging literacy gaps, providing critical information in local dialects for health, agriculture, and government services. Uganda's adoption of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is reshaping business communication, though it faces regulatory challenges as Uganda balances innovation with traditional telecom interests. As Uganda 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.
