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Africa's Talking SMS Setup

Connect your Africa's Talking account to send automated SMS notifications, purchase receipts, and credentials to subscribers across Africa (Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, Rwanda, etc.).

You need an active Africa's Talking account. Create an Africa's Talking account if you do not have one.
1

Create an Application & Get API Key

Log in to the Africa's Talking portal. By default, you can use the sandbox app or create a production app:

  • In the top bar, ensure your application mode is set (e.g. Sandbox or your custom Production App).
  • Navigate to Settings → API Key in the sidebar.
  • Enter your password and generate a new API Key. Copy this key immediately, as it will not be displayed again.
2

Request an Alphanumeric Sender ID

To brand your messages (e.g., sending from "YOURBRAND" instead of a random shortcode), submit a request for an alphanumeric Sender ID through the Africa's Talking dashboard under the SMS → Shortcodes → Alphanumeric section. This approval process typically takes 2–5 business days depending on country regulations.

3

Configure Gateway in VillageConnect

Open your Admin Panel → Settings → Manage Notifications → Gateway Settings:

  • Set SMS Provider to Africa's Talking.
  • Enter your Africa's Talking Username (use sandbox if testing, otherwise enter your production application username).
  • Paste the generated API Key.
  • Provide your approved Sender ID (or leave blank to fallback to AT's shared shortcodes).

You are all set!

VillageConnect will now automatically process and format phone numbers to deliver SMS notifications through Africa's Talking.