The WhatsApp Business API allows your business to communicate with customers at scale through the world's most popular messaging app. With over 15 million WhatsApp users in Tanzania, integrating WhatsApp into your customer communication strategy is essential. Sakura SMS simplifies the entire setup process as an official Meta WhatsApp Cloud API partner.
WhatsApp Business App vs. WhatsApp Business API
Understanding the difference is critical before you begin:
| Feature | Business App (Free) | Business API (via Sakura SMS) |
|---|---|---|
| Users | 1 device + 4 linked | Unlimited agents |
| Broadcast Limit | 256 contacts | Unlimited |
| Automation | Basic quick replies | Full chatbot and AI auto-replies |
| Integration | None | API, webhooks, CRM integration |
| Analytics | Basic | Detailed delivery and engagement reports |
| Green Tick Verification | Not available | Eligible to apply |
Prerequisites for WhatsApp Business API
- An active account at sms.sakuragroup.co.tz
- A Meta Business Manager account (create one free at business.facebook.com)
- A phone number not currently registered with WhatsApp (personal or business app)
- A valid business website (your SakuraHost hosted site works perfectly)
- Business verification documents: TIN certificate, business licence, or certificate of incorporation
Setup Process
Visit business.facebook.com and create a Meta Business Manager account if you do not already have one. Add your business details, website URL, and verify your business identity. Meta requires this for WhatsApp API access. Follow Meta's business verification guide for detailed instructions.
In your Sakura SMS dashboard, navigate to WhatsApp > Setup. Click Connect Meta Business Account. You will be redirected to Meta to authorise Sakura SMS as your WhatsApp Business Solution Provider. Grant the requested permissions.
Enter the phone number you wish to use for WhatsApp Business. Sakura SMS will initiate verification via SMS or voice call to this number. Enter the 6-digit verification code to confirm ownership.
Set up your WhatsApp Business profile with your company name, description, address, business hours, website (e.g., sakurahost.co.tz), and profile photo. This information appears when customers view your WhatsApp business contact.
Before you can initiate conversations with customers, you need approved message templates. Navigate to WhatsApp > Templates in your Sakura SMS dashboard to create templates. See our WhatsApp Templates guide for detailed instructions on creating templates that pass Meta's review.
Send a test template message to your own phone number from the Sakura SMS dashboard. Verify that the message arrives correctly on WhatsApp, that your business profile displays properly, and that replies are captured in the Sakura SMS conversation inbox.
Understanding WhatsApp Messaging Windows
Conversation Categories and Pricing
Meta categorises WhatsApp conversations into four types, each with different pricing:
- Marketing: Promotions, offers, product announcements (highest cost)
- Utility: Order confirmations, shipping updates, appointment reminders (moderate cost)
- Authentication: OTP codes and login verification (lowest cost)
- Service: Customer-initiated conversations (free for first 1,000/month)
Setting Up Webhooks
Configure webhooks to receive real-time notifications when customers send messages or when message delivery status changes. In your Sakura SMS dashboard, go to WhatsApp > Webhooks and enter your endpoint URL:
Verify Token: your-custom-verification-token
Events to subscribe:
- messages (incoming messages)
- message_status (delivery/read receipts)
- message_template_status_update (template approvals)
Green Tick Verification
The coveted green tick badge confirms your business is officially verified by Meta. To be eligible, your business must have a verified Meta Business Manager, a completed WhatsApp Business profile, and meet Meta's notability requirements. Sakura SMS can guide you through the application process. Contact our team for assistance.
Next Steps
With your WhatsApp Business API set up, explore these advanced features:
- AI-powered auto-replies for automated customer service
- Message template best practices for high approval rates
- Live chat widget integration connecting WhatsApp to your website
- SMS API integration for multi-channel messaging