There are two primary approaches for sending bulk SMS messages through Safaricom:
Direct Connection to Safaricom:
To transmit messages directly through Safaricom’s servers, you must undergo PRSP (Premium Rate Services Provider) registration, meeting stringent Safaricom requirements and obtaining a license from the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA). This method involves understanding SMPP (Short Message Peer-to-Peer Protocol) and configuring a VPN (Virtual Private Network) for the SMPP connection. Development or customization of messaging software is often necessary, demanding expertise in SMPP, VPN, and networking technologies.
Connecting directly to Safaricom’s network entails compliance with PRSP registration requirements, including contract signing, NDAs, VPN setup, and more. CA licensing, as of the current date, incurs a cost of KES100,000 + VAT, with detailed prerequisites available on the CA website. Safaricom offers bulk SMS bundles, starting at KES25,000 for 25,000 messages (1 shilling per message) valid for 60 days. Prices decrease with higher volumes, but usage must occur within the 60-day validity period. Similar setup processes and requirements apply for messaging on other networks such as Airtel or Telkom Kenya.
Advantages of Direct Connection to Safaricom:
- Supports high message volumes limited only by your sending capacity.
- Cost-effective for large volumes.
- Enhanced privacy, as messages are visible only to you, Safaricom (subject to data sharing agreements), and recipients.
Disadvantages of Direct Connection to Safaricom:
- High initial setup costs.
- Complex licensing requirements.
- Requires advanced technical knowledge.
- Expensive for low-volume users.
- Messages expire after 60 days.
- Separate setups required for other networks.
Connection via a Third Party:
For those lacking technical expertise or budget for direct integration, using a third-party provider is a more accessible option. These providers offer various services, from basic APIs to messaging dashboards and reporting tools, handling integration complexities.
Advantages of Connection via a Third Party:
- Messages do not expire.
- Network agnostic; not limited to Safaricom.
- Access to a dashboard for message management.
- Lower setup fees.
Additional Advantages of Lineserve SMS:
- User-friendly dashboard.
- Comprehensive documentation and user guides.
- Low or zero setup fees.
- Personalization options for messages.
- Integration with various services.
- Advanced reporting capabilities.
- Automatic contact management.
- Affordable messaging rates within Kenya.
- REST API for customization.
- Support for multiple African countries.
Disadvantages of Connection via a Third Party:
- May not be suitable for extremely high-volume scenarios.
- Reduced privacy due to a third party’s access to your messages (though strong access control and encryption measures can mitigate this).
Why You Can’t Use SMS Bundles on Your Line for Bulk SMS:
Safaricom’s SMS bundles are not designed for marketing use, and misuse may result in service restrictions. Personalizing messages to individual recipients is limited, requiring one-by-one message sending.
Thats How To Send Bulk SMS On Safaricom