OTP SMS in Kenya — How It Works
Our Verify API sends a time-limited one-time password (OTP) to any Kenya mobile number via SMS or WhatsApp. The code expires automatically, the status is confirmed via webhook, and the number is never stored beyond the session.
- Code expires in 5–10 minutes (configurable)
- Webhook confirms delivery and validation
- Supports SMS and WhatsApp channels
- Routes directly to Safaricom, Airtel Kenya, Telkom Kenya
Sender ID for OTP in Kenya
OTP messages in Kenya should use a short alphanumeric sender ID (e.g. "MyApp") for maximum trust. Sender IDs must be registered with the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) via a licensed aggregator. Safaricom requires direct approval for alphanumeric sender IDs. [NEEDS FACT-CHECK: CA sender-ID approval turnaround time and registration fee]
Integration in 3 Lines
Our REST endpoint accepts a phone number in E.164 format (+254XXXXXXXXX) and returns an OTP session ID. Verify the code by calling the confirm endpoint with the session ID and user-entered code.
- POST /v1/verify/send — sends the OTP
- POST /v1/verify/check — validates user input
- GET /v1/verify/{id} — checks session status