If you've ever dialed *144# to check your M-Pesa balance or *100# To buy airtime, you've used USSD.
USSD powers some of the most important mobile services in Kenya, from payments and banking to customer support. In this guide, we'll explain what USSD is, why it still matters, and how you can build your own USSD app without coding.
What Does USSD Mean?
USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) is a mobile communication protocol that allows phones to interact with applications in real time.
Unlike SMS:
- USSD is instant
- It requires no internet
- It works on every phone, including feature phones
When a user dials a code like *456#, a live session opens between their phone and your application server, enabling fast, interactive menus.
How USSD Works (In Simple Terms)
- A user dials a USSD code
- The mobile network receives the request
- The request is routed to your application
- Your app responds with a menu
- The user selects options in real time
A USSD session typically lasts up to 180 seconds, allowing users to navigate menus, enter data, and complete transactions instantly.
Why USSD Still Dominates in Kenya & Africa
Despite the rise of apps and chatbots, USSD remains unmatched for reach and reliability.
1. Works on Any Phone
Over 40% of mobile users still use feature phones. USSD reaches everyone.
2. No Internet Required
Perfect for rural areas and low-connectivity environments.
3. Instant & Fast
No downloads, no loading screens, just immediate responses.
4. Trusted by Users
M-Pesa built massive trust using USSD. That trust still exists today.
Common USSD Use Cases in Kenya
USSD powers critical services across industries:
- Payments & Mobile Money (M-Pesa, Airtel Money)
- Banking (balance checks, loans, transfers)
- SACCOs & Microfinance
- Surveys & Data Collection
- SME Services (orders, bookings, loyalty)
- Customer Support & Self-Service
USSD vs Mobile Apps vs WhatsApp Bots
| Feature | USSD | Mobile App | WhatsApp Bot |
|---|---|---|---|
| Internet Required | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Works on Feature Phones | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Download Required | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Reach in Kenya | ✅ 100% | ~60% | ~45% |
Verdict: If you want maximum reach across Kenya, USSD is still the most effective channel.
The Problem with Traditional USSD Development
USSD is powerful but historically difficult to build.
- Complex telecom integrations
- High setup costs (shortcodes, servers)
- Weeks of development time
- Developer dependency for every change
This made USSD inaccessible to many businesses.
How No-Code USSD Builders Change Everything
No-code platforms like UFlow remove the technical barrier.
With UFlow, you can:
- Build USSD flows visually
- Test instantly using a simulator
- Integrate M-Pesa and APIs easily
- Deploy without managing servers
What used to take weeks now takes hours.
How to Build a USSD App Without Coding
- Sign up on UFlow
- Create a new USSD app
- Design your flow using drag-and-drop
- Test in the built-in simulator
- Deploy and go live
No coding. No telecom headaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is USSD free for users?
Yes, in most cases. Businesses pay the session and shortcode costs.
Do users need the internet?
No. USSD works entirely over the mobile network.
How long does it take to build a USSD app?
Traditional: weeks. With UFlow: minutes to hours.
Can I integrate M-Pesa?
Yes. UFlow supports built-in M-Pesa integration.
Ready to Build Your USSD App?
USSD remains the fastest and most accessible way to reach customers in Kenya and across Africa.
With UFlow, you can build, test, and deploy USSD apps without writing code.
👉 Try UFlow and build your first USSD flow today.
Start Building Free