Semi-dedicated codes: This kind of code is dedicated to one account but shared by other accounts.

Since it is a dedicated code, it is usually the most expensive option for any organisation looking to build on USSD.

Dedicated codes: This kind of USSD code is usually owned by one user who is able to add multiple subcodes under it.

Most USSD providers will typically offer all of the following three kinds of USSD codes:

Examples include Hubtel, Africa’s Talking, Clickatell, Praekelt, etc. Third-party USSD gateways: these are companies that have obtained licenses from MNOs to provide USSD services.Mobile Network Operators: these are regular network operators like MTN, Vodafone, Safaricom, Airtel, etc.There are two kinds of organisations that issue USSD codes: The implication of this is that you can’t create a USSD code by yourself. This is because USSD transactions run on infrastructure powered by MNOs. So, if you’re looking to scale across the continent with any offering, building on USSD must be top-of-mind.Īll USSD transactions flow through Mobile Network Operators (MNOs). More than 90% of transactions in Africa flow through USSD. However, the one near-constant factor across most African countries is the use of USSD in completing transactions. Are looking to scale across Africa: Africa is a very diverse continent in many ways.If you’re building a product that supports or facilitates an essential service, building USSD as a communication or transactional channel is critical. USSD remains the most reliable way to complete transactions in Africa as it doesn’t rely on internet access. That means any downtime or break in communication can be critical. Offer essential services: Essential services like healthcare, food, policing, etc, are considered so because they are crucial to the fabric of any society.Therefore, if you’re looking to build an inclusive product, it’s a necessity to build on USSD. Any product that excludes feature phones automatically excludes a majority on the continent. Care about inclusion and accessibility: As of 2021, more Africans used feature phones than smartphones.Beyond being a tool for commerce, USSD is also a communication tool that allows people to transmit information without the internet.Īs a business, you should be looking to build a USSD touchpoint if you: As such, it is also an important tool for businesses looking to reach customers on the continent.Īlthough transactions are the primary use-case of USSD, it can be used to do a lot more as is evidenced by these applications of USSD we considered. It powers a vast majority of transactions across the continent. USSD is a critical component of Africa’s financial technology landscape.

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