SMS Leopard
Back to Blogs

Office Hours: What We Learned from Live User Questions in Kenya.

August 30, 2025

written by Maingi

Office Hours: What We Learned from Live User Questions in Kenya.

At SMSLeopard, we don’t just provide bulk SMS, WhatsApp, and USSD solutions—we also listen to our users. Recently, during our Office Hours webinar series in Kenya, we engaged with businesses, NGOs, churches, and SACCOs who shared their questions, challenges, and success stories around messaging.

This blog captures the most frequently asked questions, key insights, and how SMSLeopard continues to be the best partner for inclusive and effective communication in Kenya.


The Top Questions Users Asked

1️⃣ How can we use SMS beyond just sending alerts?

  • Answer: SMS has evolved from one-way alerts to two-way engagement. With features like Short Codes, Keyword Campaigns, and WhatsApp ChatSasa integration, businesses can run surveys, get feedback, and automate customer flows.

2️⃣ Can SMS campaigns support Swahili and local languages?

  • Answer: Yes! SMSLeopard fully supports Unicode messaging, enabling campaigns in Swahili, Kikuyu, Luo, and other local dialects. This builds inclusivity and trust, especially in rural and semi-urban regions.

3️⃣ How do we measure campaign success?

  • Answer: Metrics like delivery rates, open rates, click-throughs, and response rates are built into SMSLeopard’s reporting dashboard. Real-time analytics help teams align marketing, sales, and support.

4️⃣ What’s the best way to integrate SMS with WhatsApp?

  • Answer: Using ChatSasa (powered by SMSLeopard), teams can combine bulk SMS for reach with WhatsApp for personalized conversations. For example, an NGO can send SMS reminders, then continue the conversation on WhatsApp for detailed support.

5️⃣ How do we ensure compliance and avoid spam?

  • Answer: Compliance is key in Kenya. SMSLeopard ensures:

    • Sender ID registration for brand credibility.

    • Opt-out features for customer trust.

    • Adherence to CAK (Communications Authority of Kenya) guidelines.


Key Insights from the Webinar

  • Businesses want end-to-end solutions that connect SMS, WhatsApp, and USSD.

  • Cost-effectiveness is still a major priority for SMEs, SACCOs, and NGOs.

  • There is strong demand for vernacular messaging in community-driven campaigns.

  • AI-powered automation (chatbots, smart replies) is gaining interest, especially in customer support.


Real-Life User Stories

  • A Nairobi SACCO shared how SMSLeopard helped them reduce loan default rates by 25% through repayment reminders.

  • A church in Kisumu reported doubling youth fellowship attendance by using SMS invitations + WhatsApp follow-ups.

  • An NGO in Turkana used Swahili SMS for a vaccination drive, reaching remote households with high engagement.


Why SMSLeopard Stands Out in Kenya

  • Bulk SMS with Unicode support (local languages).

  • Short Codes & 2-Way Messaging for feedback.

  • WhatsApp Business API (ChatSasa) for conversational engagement.

  • USSD solutions for rural and unconnected populations.

  • Real-time analytics for smarter decision-making.

  • Affordable pricing designed for SMEs, NGOs, churches, and enterprises.


Conclusion

Our Office Hours showed us one thing clearly: Kenyan businesses and organizations want more than just messaging—they want conversations, community, and results.

With SMSLeopard, you get a platform that combines reach, inclusivity, and innovation to help you communicate better. Whether you’re running a marketing campaign, NGO outreach, church mobilization, or SACCO loan reminder, SMSLeopard is your trusted partner for digital engagement in Kenya.

👉 Learn more at www.smsleopard.com