USSD, SMS, WhatsApp and Call Center Set Up & Pricing in Zambia.
In Zambia, telecommunication facilities are well-developed, with around 18 million mobile phone users. Internet penetration stands at approximately 30%, reflecting a growing digital landscape. USSD services are highly popular due to their accessibility and ease of use. Common USSD codes include *100# for checking airtime balance, *123# for accessing mobile money services, and *304# for customer care. Major telecom companies like MTN Zambia, Airtel Zambia, and Zamtel utilize USSD extensively to offer a variety of services. WhatsApp and SMS are widely used in marketing due to their high reach and effectiveness. Businesses frequently use these platforms to engage with customers, share promotions, and provide updates. For example, retail chains and service providers use SMS for marketing campaigns and transactional notifications.
In Zambia, the telecommunications landscape offers various SMS services, each governed by Zambia's specific regulations. Short codes, popular in Zambia for services like mobile banking, require approval from Zambia's national communications authority. Zambia's businesses can use marketing SMS for promotions, but must adhere to Zambia's registration and consent requirements. Transactional SMS in Zambia face less stringent rules but must comply with Zambia's data protection laws. Premium Rate Services SMS in Zambia, which charge users for content, typically need a license from Zambia's regulatory body and must follow Zambia's pricing transparency guidelines.
WhatsApp's popularity in Zambia stems from WhatsApp's data efficiency in areas with limited internet. WhatsApp's end-to-end encryption ensures secure communication for Zambia's users. The WhatsApp API Cloud enables Zambia'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 Zambia. The WhatsApp API Cloud allows Zambia'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 Zambia
Zambia leverages USSD technology for interactive, menu-driven services that operate without internet, crucial for Zambia's digital inclusion efforts. In Zambia, USSD facilitates mobile banking, public service delivery, and information access, serving both urban and rural populations through its compatibility with basic phones. Zambia's telecom regulator oversees USSD short codes, ensuring fair access across mobile networks and adhering to Zambia's specific numbering plan. Despite growing smartphone adoption, USSD remains vital in Zambia 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.
ZMW
6,000
Dedicated USSD Code (Monthly)
This fee is charged per month to keep the USSD code active and is charged per Telco.
ZMW
10,000
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.
ZMW
0.06
Voice (IVR) pricing in Zambia
Zambia's voice service landscape is rapidly evolving, with call centers emerging as hubs for both local support and international outsourcing, capitalizing on Zambia's multilingual workforce. Interactive Voice Response (IVR) systems in Zambia are bridging literacy gaps, providing critical information in local dialects for health, agriculture, and government services. Zambia's adoption of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is reshaping business communication, though it faces regulatory challenges as Zambia balances innovation with traditional telecom interests. As Zambia 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.
SMS Sent (Per)
Bulk SMS is used for marketing, alerts, and customer communication. SMS is cost-effective and has higher open rates than email.
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