The top 10 bulk SMS service providers in Kenya are Celcom Africa, Africa’s Talking, Advanta Africa, Oramobile, SMS Leopard, Uwazii Mobile, AirTouch Connections, Mobitech (MoveSMS), YuDigify, and Africala.
In a mobile-first nation like Kenya, where smartphone penetration has reached 85% and active mobile subscriptions exceed 78 million as of early 2026, bulk SMS remains a powerhouse for instant, reliable communication. With open rates consistently hitting 98% and delivery in seconds, it’s far more effective than email (20% open rate) or social media for businesses, NGOs, schools, and SACCOs.
Whether you’re running promotional campaigns, sending transactional alerts, or appointment reminders, the right bulk SMS provider can supercharge your outreach.
This updated guide ranks the top providers based on pricing, features, delivery reliability, user reviews, and scalability, helping you choose wisely in a competitive market.
Key Takeaways – Top 10 Bulk SMS Providers in Kenya
✅ SMS Still Wins in Kenya — 98% open rate, 78M+ subscriptions, 85% smartphone penetration, instant delivery.
✅ Highly Affordable Channel — Rates start from KES 0.25 per SMS with strong volume discounts.
✅ Celcom Africa Ranks #1 Overall — Lowest pricing, 99.9% delivery, 2-second speed, APIs, WhatsApp/USSD integration, scalable for SMEs to enterprises.
✅ Strong Specialized Alternatives — Africa’s Talking (developer APIs), Mobitech (low-cost API), Oramobile (multi-channel), AirTouch (nationwide coverage), Uwazii (high uptime).
✅ Compliance Is Critical — CAK Sender ID registration, opt-in consent, DND filtering, and 7 AM–7 PM promotional window.
✅ Proven ROI Across Sectors — Drives promotions, OTPs, reminders, debt reduction, NGO outreach, and e-commerce conversions.
What is Bulk SMS?
Bulk SMS allows organizations to send thousands of text messages simultaneously to targeted recipients. It’s ideal for:
- Marketing Campaigns: Promote sales, events, or new products.
- Customer Notifications: Deliver order confirmations, delivery updates, or OTPs.
- Internal Communication: Share alerts with employees or stakeholders.
- Reminders: Notify about appointments, payments, or events.
Regulated by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK), bulk SMS requires Sender ID registration for branded messages, opt-in consent, and adherence to promotional timing (7 AM to 7 PM). Providers integrate seamlessly with networks like Safaricom, Airtel, and Telkom for high deliverability.
Why Bulk SMS is Essential in Kenya
Kenya’s mobile ecosystem is booming, with over 78 million subscriptions driving instant connectivity. Here’s why bulk SMS stands out:
- Instant Delivery: 98% of messages are read within 3 minutes.
- Cost-Effective: Rates start at Shs 0.25 per SMS, cheaper than ads.
- High Engagement: Personalized texts boost responses 3x over email.
- Wide Reach: No internet needed, ideal for rural areas.
From Nairobi e-commerce to Kisumu SACCOs, bulk SMS enhances customer connections in a market where 149% mobile penetration enables targeted outreach.
How to Choose the Best Bulk SMS Provider in Kenya
Focus on these key factors:
- Pricing: Seek volume discounts and transparent rates (Shs 0.25–1.00 per SMS).
- Reliability: Aim for 99%+ delivery with real-time reports.
- Features: Custom Sender IDs, APIs, scheduling, multi-channel (e.g., WhatsApp/USSD).
- Compliance: CAK-approved with DND filters and opt-in tools.
- Support: 24/7 assistance and scalability.
- User Reviews: High ratings for uptime and ease.
Our rankings are based on industry reports, user feedback, and provider updates.
Top 10 Bulk SMS Service Providers in Kenya
1. Celcom Africa
Best Overall Bulk SMS Service Provider in Kenya
Celcom Africa leads the pack with enterprise-grade solutions, serving over 10,000 businesses across Kenya and Africa since 2012. Trusted for its 99.9% delivery rate, instant 2-second turnaround, and affordable rates starting at KES 0.25 per SMS, it’s ideal for SMEs, NGOs, schools, and enterprises needing reliable, scalable messaging.
Pricing: KES 0.25–0.60 per SMS; non-expiring credits; wholesale for resellers.
Features:
- Custom Sender ID with CAK compliance support.
- REST/SMPP APIs with SDKs (Python, Java, PHP, Node.js).
- Real-time analytics, webhooks, and segmentation.
- Multi-channel: Bulk WhatsApp, Email, USSD, shortcodes.
- A2P for OTPs; surveys via SMS/USSD/WhatsApp.
- 99.9% uptime; pan-African reach.
Pros: Lowest rates, high deliverability, 24/7 support, intuitive dashboard.
Cons: Sender ID fees per network.
Best For: SMEs, NGOs, startups, developers, resellers, and automated systems.
Testimonial: “Celcom’s affordability, timely delivery, and reliability are unmatched after 6 years.” – Reuben Kimani, Username Investment.
2. Africa’s Talking
Best for Developers and API Integration
Founded in 2010, Africa’s Talking excels in scalable APIs for SMS, USSD, and payments, serving tech-savvy businesses.
Pricing: Shs 0.40–0.60 per SMS.
Features:
- Free Sender ID setup (CAK-approved).
- Comprehensive docs for Python, Java, and PHP.
- Two-way messaging, shortcodes, analytics.
- Safaricom/Airtel integration.
Pros: Developer-focused, high scalability.
Cons: Slightly higher rates.
Best For: Tech startups, automation.
3. Advanta Africa (AdvantaSMS)
Best for Budget and Global Reach
Advanta offers affordable packages with coverage across 800+ networks.
Pricing: Shs 0.80–1.00 per SMS.
Features:
- Free API for web/app integration.
- Dashboard, mobile app, bulk software.
- Sender ID and scheduling.
- Free trial.
Pros: Intuitive, global sends.
Cons: Higher per-SMS costs.
Best For: Startups, international campaigns.
4. Oramobile
Best for Multi-Channel Strategies
Oramobile combines SMS with WhatsApp, USSD, and shortcodes for versatile campaigns .
Pricing: Shs 0.75–1.00 per SMS.
Features:
- Free platform with credits.
- Sender ID, scheduling, and integrations.
- 24/7 support in major cities.
Pros: Multi-channel options, easy dashboard. Cons: Higher costs. Best For: Businesses blending SMS/WhatsApp.
5. SMS Leopard
Best for Simple Marketing Campaigns
SMS Leopard focuses on personalized, instant delivery for marketing.
Pricing: KES 0.40–0.60 per SMS (estimated from reviews).
Features:
- Personalized SMS and group messaging.
- Branding with Sender IDs.
- Instant delivery reports.
Pros: Straightforward, reliable.
Cons: Limited advanced analytics.
Best For: Marketing-focused SMEs.
6. Uwazii Mobile
Best for Scalable Solutions
Uwazii offers innovative, pay-as-you-go messaging with high uptime.
Pricing: Shs 0.50–0.80 per SMS.
Features:
- Mail merging, duplicate checker.
- Real-time analytics, 99.99% uptime.
- Flexible pricing.
Pros: Scalable, user-friendly.
Cons: Mid-range pricing.
Best For: Growing businesses.
7. AirTouch Connections
Best for Nationwide Coverage
AirTouch ensures 100% reach across Kenyan networks with competitive pricing.
Pricing: Shs 0.50–0.80 per SMS.
Features:
- Personalization, APIs, tracking.
- Supports SACCOs, schools, and corporates.
Pros: Broad coverage, affordable.
Cons: Fewer advanced features.
Best For: Marketing and wide-reach operations.
8. Mobitech (MoveSMS)
Best for API Simplicity
Mobitech provides easy gateways for app/website integration.
Pricing: Shs 0.30–0.35 per SMS.
Features:
- Free APIs (Java, Python, PHP, C#).
- Custom Sender IDs, scheduling.
- Reseller options.
Pros: Low rates, no monthly fees.
Cons: Basic analytics.
Best For: Developers, resellers.
9. YuDigify
Best New Entrant for Reliability
YuDigify emphasizes fast delivery and affordability for businesses.
Pricing: KES 0.35–0.70 per SMS (estimated).
Features:
- Custom Sender IDs, APIs, reports.
- High-speed routing, compliance tools.
Pros: Competitive pricing, strong support.
Cons: Newer with fewer reviews.
Best For: E-commerce, growing SMEs.
It’s illegal for banks, other lenders to call or send SMSs to your contacts after you default
10. Africala
Best for Local Support
Africala focuses on speed and compliance for enterprises.
Pricing: Shs 0.60–0.90 per SMS.
Features:
- Sender IDs, analytics, opt-outs.
- Bulk tools for Kenya/Africa.
Pros: Compliant, local support.
Cons: Pricier for small volumes.
Best For: Corporations, NGOs.
Bulk SMS Service Pricing/Cost Comparison in Kenya
| Provider | Price per SMS (KES) | Free Trial | Sender ID Fee (KES) | API Integration | Delivery Rate |
| Celcom Africa | 0.25–0.60 | Yes (50) | ~6,500 per network | Yes | 99.9% |
| Africa’s Talking | 0.40–0.60 | No | Varies | Yes | 98% |
| Advanta Africa | 0.80–1.00 | Yes | Varies | Yes | 97% |
| Oramobile | 0.75–1.00 | Yes | Varies | Yes | 97% |
| SMS Leopard | 0.40–0.60 | Yes | Varies | Yes | 98% |
| Uwazii Mobile | 0.50–0.80 | No | Varies | Yes | 99.99% |
| AirTouch | 0.50–0.80 | No | Varies | Yes | 99.99% |
| Mobitech | 0.30–0.35 | Yes | Varies | Yes | 98% |
| YuDigify | 0.35–0.70 | Yes | Varies | Yes | 99% |
| Africala | 0.60–0.90 | Yes | Varies | Yes | 98% |
How to Send Bulk SMS Online in Kenya
- Choose a Provider: Select a CAK-compliant Bulk SMS Service Provider option like Celcom Africa.
- Register: Create an account and buy credits (prepaid/postpaid).
- Upload Contacts: Import lists or add manually.
- Compose Message: Keep under 160 characters with personalization and CTA.
- Send or Schedule: Immediate or timed delivery.
- Track Performance: Monitor reports for engagement.
Tip: Personalization (e.g., “Hi [Name]”) triples responses.
Benefits of Bulk SMS Service for Kenyan Businesses
- Retail & E-commerce: Send promo alerts like “50% off now!”
- Banks & SACCOs: Transaction reminders, reducing defaults by up to 25% .
- Healthcare: Appointment/vaccination notices.
- Education: Fee/event updates.
- NGOs: Community/fundraising engagements.
Final Thoughts
In Kenya’s digital landscape, bulk SMS delivers unmatched engagement at low cost. While many providers excel, Celcom Africa’s blend of affordability, reliability, and features makes it a standout choice for scalable results.
Ready to boost your communication? Sign up for Celcom Africa’s free 50-credit trial today. Compare options, test platforms, and stay ahead with bulk SMS!
People Also Ask- About the Top 10 Bulk SMS Service Providers in Kenya
What is the best bulk SMS provider in Kenya?
Celcom Africa stands out for its low rates (KES 0.25–0.60), 99.9% delivery, developer-friendly APIs, and multi-channel options, trusted by 10,000+ businesses.
How much does bulk SMS cost in Kenya?
Rates range from KES 0.25 (Celcom Africa high-volume) to KES 1.00 per SMS; discounts for bulk SMS.
Is there a free bulk SMS service in Kenya?
No unlimited free options, but trials like Celcom’s 50 credits are available.
How do I send bulk SMS in Kenya?
Sign up, buy credits, upload contacts, compose, send via dashboard/API; ensure CAK compliance.
What are the regulations for bulk SMS in Kenya?
CAK mandates Sender ID registration, opt-in, DND respect, and promotional hours (7 AM–7 PM).
Which bulk SMS provider has the best API in Kenya?
Celcom Africa with REST/SMPP, multi-language SDKs, and easy OTP/alert integration.
What are the best bulk SMS providers?
Top Bulk SMS Service providers in Kenya for include Celcom Africa (best overall for low rates KES 0.25+, 99.9% delivery, Developer-friendly APIs), Africa’s Talking (developer APIs), Advanta Africa (global reach), Oramobile (multi-channel), and AirTouch (nationwide coverage). Celcom Africa often ranks #1 for value and reliability.
How to send 5000 SMS at once?
Sign up with a CAK-compliant provider like Celcom Africa, purchase credits (e.g., via dashboard or API), upload contacts (CSV/import), compose a message (<160 chars, personalize), and send/schedule via web panel or API. Delivery is instant; monitor reports. Takes minutes for 5000+.
Which SMS service is best?
Celcom Africa is frequently the best bulk SMS service in Kenya due to competitive pricing (from KES 0.25), 99.9% delivery, robust APIs/multi-channel (WhatsApp/USSD), and strong support—ideal for businesses needing reliability and affordability.
How much is bulk SMS in Kenya?
Bulk SMS pricing in Kenya ranges from KES 0.25 (high-volume with Celcom Africa) to KES 1.00 per SMS. Volume discounts apply: e.g., Celcom tiers drop to KES 0.30 for 300K+; average KES 0.40–0.80 for mid-range.
Is bulk SMS really free?
No, true unlimited free bulk SMS does not exist due to CAK regulations and costs. Providers offer free trials (e.g., Celcom Africa 50 credits) or limited demos, but paid credits are required for real campaigns.
Is text blasting illegal?
Bulk SMS (text blasting) is legal in Kenya if compliant with CAK rules: obtain opt-in consent, respect DND lists, register Sender IDs, and limit promotional sends to 7 AM–7 PM. Non-compliance risks fines.
How do I text 100 people at once?
Use a bulk SMS platform like Celcom Africa: register, buy credits, upload contacts (manual/CSV), craft a message, and send via dashboard or API. Instant for small groups; scales to thousands.
Is cold WhatsApp illegal?
Cold WhatsApp messaging (unsolicited) violates Meta’s policies and Kenya’s Data Protection Act—requires explicit opt-in. Use opt-in lists only; promotional WhatsApp needs consent to avoid blocks/fines.
How much do text blasts cost?
Text blast costs in Kenya: Shs 0.25–1.00 per message (volume-dependent). For 1,000 SMS: ~Shs 250–1,000; high-volume (e.g., Celcom) drops significantly with discounts.
Is bulk SMS still effective?
Yes, bulk SMS remains highly effective in with 98% open rates, instant delivery, and no internet access, outperforming email/social for alerts, promotions, and reminders in Kenya.
How do I send 10,000 messages on WhatsApp?
Use official WhatsApp Business API via providers like Celcom Africa (Bulk WhatsApp integration). Requires opt-in templates, Meta approval, and paid credits—avoid unofficial tools to prevent bans.
What is replacing SMS?
RCS (Rich Communication Services) enhances SMS with rich media/interactivity but won’t fully replace it in; SMS remains a universal fallback (no data needed). WhatsApp/RCS complement for richer engagement.
What is the best time to send bulk SMS?
Best times in Kenya: 8–10 AM (morning alerts), 12:30–2 PM (lunch), 6–8 PM (evening promotions). Mid-week (Tue–Thu) highest engagement; avoid late nights per CAK rules.
What is SMS called now?
SMS (Short Message Service) is still the standard term . Enhanced versions include RCS (Rich Communication Services) or A2P (application-to-person) messaging.
Will RCS completely replace SMS?
No,RCS enhances SMS with media/typing indicators but relies on SMS fallback. In Kenya, RCS grows for rich experiences, but SMS persists for universal reach, especially in Kenya/Africa.
Is there an alternative to SMS?
Yes: WhatsApp Business API (rich media, conversations), RCS (enhanced texting), email, push notifications, or USSD. For bulk in Kenya, Bulk WhatsApp via Celcom Africa offers strong opt-in alternatives.
What is the best SMS platform?
Celcom Africa ranks highly as the best Bulk SMS platform in Kenya low cost (Shs 0.25+), 99.9% delivery, APIs, multi-channel (WhatsApp/USSD), and trusted support.
What is the most reliable number verification service?
For OTP/verification in Kenya: Celcom Africa (A2P OTPs, high delivery), Africa’s Talking, or Twilio. Celcom excels locally with 99.9% reliability and fast routing.
How to get OTP without SMS?
Alternatives: Email OTP, WhatsApp/voice call verification, authenticator apps (TOTP), push notifications, or biometrics. Many services (e.g., banking apps) now support WhatsApp or in-app for no-SMS options.
