Mali SMS Messaging: Guidelines and Best Practices
Mastering SMS communication in Mali requires understanding specific guidelines and technical capabilities. This guide provides essential details and best practices for sending SMS messages to Mali, covering mobile country codes, message concatenation, and compliance considerations.
Key Locale Information
- Locale Name: Mali
- ISO Code: ML
- Region: Middle East & Africa
- Mobile Country Code: 610
- Dialing Code: +223
SMS Capabilities in Mali
Two-Way SMS Support
Two-way SMS is not supported in Mali. While you can send messages, recipients cannot reply directly via SMS.
Number Portability
Number portability, which allows users to keep their phone numbers when switching networks, is unavailable in Mali. This affects contact list management and phone number validity.
Concatenated Message Support
Mali supports concatenated SMS messages. Messages exceeding the standard length are split into segments and reassembled on the recipient's device. Note that concatenation may vary based on sender ID types and character encoding.
Message Length
Messages longer than 160 characters for GSM-encoded texts trigger concatenation. Ensure your message fits within this limit to avoid splitting.
MMS Support
MMS is not directly supported in Mali. Instead, MMS messages convert to SMS with an embedded URL, allowing recipients to view content via a web link.
Sending SMS to Landline Numbers
Sending SMS to landline numbers in Mali is not supported. Attempts to do so will result in a 400 error (error code 21614), and the message will not be logged or charged.
Compliance Considerations
Ensuring compliance with local regulations is crucial when sending SMS messages to Mali. Review all use cases with legal counsel to adhere to applicable laws. Here are some best practices:
- Obtain Opt-In Consent: Secure explicit consent from end-users before sending communications, especially for marketing.
- Respect Local Time Zones: Send messages during the recipient's daytime hours unless urgent.
- Support HELP/STOP Messages: Ensure SMS campaigns can handle HELP/STOP messages in the local language.
- Avoid Do-Not-Call Registries: Do not contact users on do-not-call or do-not-disturb lists.
FAQs
Is two-way SMS supported in Mali?
No, two-way SMS is not supported. You can send messages, but recipients cannot reply directly.
Can I send SMS to landline numbers in Mali?
No, sending SMS to landline numbers is not supported. Attempts will result in a 400 error code.
Does Mali support concatenated SMS messages?
Yes, concatenated SMS messages are supported, though support may vary by sender ID type and character encoding.
Conclusion
Understanding Mali's SMS guidelines ensures successful message delivery and compliance with local regulations. While two-way SMS and number portability are unsupported, concatenated messages are available, and MMS messages convert to SMS with embedded URLs. Always follow best practices, such as obtaining opt-in consent and respecting local time zones, to enhance user experience.
For more information on SMS regulations, consult official governmental resources.