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Sender IDs

The sender ID is the name recipients see instead of a phone number, for example MYCOMPANY. Kenyan networks only deliver messages from registered sender IDs, so every message needs one.

Getting one​

Apply in the CloudMetis app under SMS → Sender IDs. The networks review each application; once approved, the sender ID is ready for the app and the API. Step-by-step instructions are in the app under Help → Apply for a sender ID.

Using it in the API​

You sendCloudMetis uses
No sender_idYour organisation's default approved sender ID (or the first approved one if none is marked default)
"sender_id": "MYCOMPANY"That sender ID, if it is approved for your organisation. Matching is not case-sensitive.

If the sender ID isn't approved, or your organisation has none yet, the request fails with 403 invalid_sender_id and nothing is sent. Test keys are checked the same way.

Tips​

  • Use one sender ID consistently so customers recognise your messages.
  • If you have several (for example MYSHOP and MYSHOP-OTP), pass sender_id explicitly so a change of default in the app doesn't change what your integration sends.