NGOs work with communities where smartphones and data can’t be assumed. SMS, voice calls and USSD reach every phone, making them the most reliable way to inform, survey and support beneficiaries.
How NGOs use mobile messaging
- Beneficiary updates: distribution days, venues, eligibility and documents to bring.
- Health and education messages in local languages — by SMS or voice.
- Surveys and monitoring: baseline, follow-up and feedback by SMS or USSD.
- Field team coordination: instructions and check-ins for enumerators and volunteers.
- Emergency alerts: floods, outbreaks and security updates.
- Fundraising and donor updates for local supporters.
Protect beneficiary data
Beneficiary lists often include vulnerable people. Collect consent, limit who can access and export contacts, keep messages free of sensitive details, and follow Kenya’s Data Protection Act — see our data protection guide.
Design for your audience
- Use simple language and short messages.
- Offer voice for low-literacy groups.
- Use a recognisable sender ID so people trust the message.
- Give a way to reply or call for help.
Budget-friendly
No minimum top-up and credit that never expires suit project-based budgets. Estimate costs with the cost calculator, and talk to us about large programmes.
Get started
Create a Connect Media account — SMS from KES 1.0, no minimum top-up, credit that never expires, and one account for Safaricom, Airtel and Telkom. Call +254 707 339 945 or email info@connectmedia.co.ke.
Frequently asked questions
How do NGOs use bulk SMS?
For beneficiary updates, health and education messages, surveys, field team coordination, emergency alerts and donor updates.
Can NGOs send messages in local languages?
Yes. SMS can be written in any language using standard characters, and voice messages can be recorded in any language.
Does credit expire between projects?
No. Connect Media credit never expires, which suits project-based budgets.