USSD Services in Ethiopia: USSD Codes and Setup

USSD codes in Ethiopia

To run a USSD service, you need a USSD access code (such as *384*123#) assigned by the mobile networks. In Ethiopia, you can get a code from one of these providers and connect it to Telerivet:

USSD code registration: from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the mobile networks.
Pricing: per-session pricing plus code setup and monthly fees; contact Infobip for prices in Ethiopia.

Other USSD providers

Already have a USSD code from another provider or mobile network in Ethiopia? Telerivet can integrate with other USSD providers on request. Additional integration fees may apply.

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All Telerivet plans support USSD codes. Each USSD code counts as one route, and each USSD session counts as one message toward your plan's limits. Telerivet plans · Contact us

User Registration

Let people register for your program, check account balances, or respond to surveys directly from a feature phone, even in areas with no data coverage.

Account Information

Let customers securely look up information about their account, such as balances or payment due dates, with menus protected by a PIN.

Data Collection

Ask multiple questions and collect numeric responses. Since USSD sessions are not stored on the phone, USSD works well for collecting sensitive information.

Offline Data Access

Let mobile phone users look up information from your data sources even without an internet connection.

What is USSD?

USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) enables two-way, menu-based communication with any mobile phone, including basic feature phones, without an internet connection. People open a USSD service by dialing a code ending with #, such as *384*123#, and then choose menu options or enter numbers. A single session can contain several prompts and answers.

How do I get a USSD code in Ethiopia?

Telerivet doesn't provide USSD codes itself. Request a code from a USSD provider that works in Ethiopia (see USSD codes above), then connect it to Telerivet as a route. A shared code, which uses a number under the provider's code, is usually the fastest option. A dedicated code takes longer because each mobile network must approve it.

How much does USSD cost?

USSD providers charge per session, plus setup and monthly fees for the USSD code, which vary by country, mobile network and code type. In some countries you can choose who pays for sessions: your organization, or your users, with the mobile network deducting the cost from their airtime. Telerivet counts each USSD session as one message toward your plan's limits.

Do people need a smartphone or internet access?

No. USSD works on any mobile phone, including basic feature phones, and doesn't use mobile data. This makes USSD a good way to reach people in rural areas or with limited data access.

Can I combine USSD with SMS?

Yes. From the same Telerivet service you can send an SMS confirmation during or after a USSD session, send reminders, transfer airtime as a reward, or start a voice call. See the SMS options in Ethiopia.

Do I need to know how to code to build a USSD service?

No. You can describe your menu to the AI Operator in plain language and it builds the service for you.

The AI Operator generates JavaScript code for your USSD menu using Telerivet's Cloud Script API.

Build interactive USSD menus in Ethiopia

USSD codes in Ethiopia

Other USSD providers

Describe your menu and AI builds it

Works on any phone, no internet required

Store answers and follow up automatically

Monitor sessions live, at any scale

Use cases

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Frequently asked questions

Start your USSD service in Ethiopia