As one of the fastest-growing social media platforms in Africa, instant messaging app WhatsApp is also becoming increasingly popular in the business sector.

According to Quartz Media, in Nigeria, e-commerce startups and retailers have been experimenting with reaching their customers on WhatsApp by targeting popular groups and building broadcast lists.

As such, WhatsApp has launched a standalone Android app (WhatsApp Business) for small businesses. The app will feature business profiles, messaging tools such as quick replies and a verified business account listing. ‘Our new app will make it easier for companies to connect with customers, and more convenient for our 1.3 billion users to chat with businesses that matter to them,’ says WhatsApp.

More than 500 000 users have installed the app within two weeks of being launched in the UK and US. The app is now available in Nigeria and Kenya, and is planned for roll-out in South Africa soon.

6 February 2018
Image: Vamers