SMS Guidelines and Compliance for Malawi (MW)
Understanding the SMS landscape in Malawi is crucial for effective communication. This guide provides insights into SMS regulations, message handling, and compliance requirements in Malawi, including message length and two-way SMS support.
Key Aspects of SMS Messaging in Malawi
Two-Way SMS Support
Two-way SMS is not supported in Malawi. This limitation means recipients cannot directly reply to your messages. For interactive communication, consider using web-based chat services or redirecting users to other platforms.
Number Portability
In Malawi, number portability is unavailable. Users cannot keep their mobile numbers when switching carriers. Businesses should account for this when planning customer communications.
Message Length and Concatenation
SMS messages are limited to 160 characters. Messages exceeding this length are split into concatenated segments, which appear as a single message to the receiver. Note that concatenation may vary based on encoding and sender ID.
Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)
Standard MMS is not supported in Malawi. Instead, MMS messages are transformed into SMS with an embedded URL. Ensure multimedia content is accessible via links.
Sending SMS to Landline Numbers
SMS cannot be sent to landline numbers in Malawi. Attempts to do so will result in a 400 error (code 21614), and the message will not be delivered. Verify recipient numbers to avoid errors.
Compliance Considerations
Adhering to compliance guidelines is essential for SMS campaigns in Malawi:
- Time Restrictions: Avoid sending promotional messages between 5pm and 8am (UTC+2) to comply with local laws.
- Opt-In Consent: Obtain explicit opt-in consent from recipients before sending messages, particularly for marketing purposes.
- HELP/STOP Commands: Support standard commands like HELP and STOP in the local language to allow users to manage subscriptions.
- Do-Not-Call Registries: Respect do-not-call lists to prevent penalties and protect your brand's reputation.
For further details, refer to the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority for official guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is two-way SMS supported in Malawi?
No, two-way SMS is not supported. Consider alternative communication methods.
Can I send SMS to a landline in Malawi?
No, sending SMS to landlines is not possible. Attempts will result in a 400 error.
What is the maximum message length for SMS in Malawi?
The maximum length is 160 characters. Exceeding this will split the message.
By following these guidelines, ensure your SMS campaigns in Malawi are compliant and optimized for success.