What is the best SMS API to use for sending messages to Ethiopia?

Twilio, Sinch, and MessageBird all offer SMS API solutions with support for Ethiopia. Consider factors like pricing, features, and ease of integration when choosing.

What are the character limits for SMS messages in Ethiopia?

Standard SMS character limits apply: 160 characters for GSM-7 encoding and 70 characters for UCS-2 encoding, which is crucial for Amharic and other local languages.

How do I handle SMS opt-outs in Ethiopia?

Although not formally mandated, it's best practice to support STOP/DAGA (Stop all messages) and HELP/ERDATA (Get assistance) commands. Process opt-outs within 24 hours and maintain a suppression list.

Are there any restrictions on the content I can send via SMS in Ethiopia?

Yes, prohibited content includes gambling, adult content, unauthorized promotional material, and political messaging without authorization. Financial and healthcare services are also regulated and require additional compliance measures.

What is the recommended sending time for SMS messages in Ethiopia?

While there are no strict rules, it's recommended to send messages between 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM EAT (East Africa Time, UTC+3). Avoid sending messages during religious holidays and national celebrations.

What is the process for registering an Alphanumeric Sender ID in Ethiopia?

Alphanumeric Sender IDs are supported in Ethiopia but require pre-registration. You'll need to provide documentation for your company and brand name. No segregation between international and domestic traffic.

Is two-way SMS messaging supported in Ethiopia?

No, two-way SMS messaging is not supported in Ethiopia due to current regulations. SMS strategies should be designed around one-way communication flows.

What should I do if my SMS messages are being filtered in Ethiopia?

To avoid filtering, use registered sender IDs, avoid excessive punctuation and special characters, maintain consistent sending patterns, and minimize the use of URLs in your messages.

How can I send SMS messages in Amharic in Ethiopia?

Use UCS-2 encoding to ensure proper display of Amharic characters in SMS messages. Also, consider localizing your opt-out and help commands into Amharic.

Does Ethiopia have a Do Not Call (DNC) registry?

No, Ethiopia does not have an official DNC registry. Businesses should maintain their own suppression lists, honor opt-out requests promptly, and implement proper opt-out tracking systems.

What error code indicates sending SMS to landlines in Ethiopia?

Attempting to send SMS to landline numbers will result in a failed delivery and a 400 error code 21614 for the Twilio API.

Are short codes available for SMS messaging in Ethiopia?

No, short codes are not currently supported in Ethiopia.

Ethiopia SMS Guide

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