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Before your team can send or receive WhatsApp messages through Soneka, you need to connect at least one WhatsApp number to your workspace. Soneka supports three connection methods, each suited to a different situation — a Meta-managed Cloud API integration for full production capability, a Twilio bridge for teams already on that platform, and a fast QR-based connection for exploration and testing. All three methods route messages into the same shared inbox, broadcast engine, and Flow Builder once connected.

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Choosing the right method

Use this table to pick the method that fits your situation before you start setup.
The Unofficial API (QR) method is not approved by Meta. It works by linking Soneka to a real WhatsApp or WhatsApp Business app on your phone, the same way WhatsApp Web does. WhatsApp may disconnect the session or ban the number without notice. Do not use it for customer-facing production traffic.

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Setup instructions

The WhatsApp Cloud API is the official Meta-managed connection method. It gives your number access to the full WhatsApp Business Platform feature set: approved message templates, broadcasting at scale, green tick (verified business) eligibility, and the highest reliability tier. Setup uses Meta’s embedded signup flow, which means you complete Meta’s verification steps inside the Soneka interface — you never need to leave the app.What you’ll need before you start:
  • A Facebook account with admin access to a Meta Business Manager (you can create a new Business Manager during signup if you don’t have one).
  • A phone number that is not currently registered on WhatsApp Personal or WhatsApp Business. If your number is registered, you’ll need to delete the existing WhatsApp account on that number first.
  • Your business display name and a brief business description.
1

Open the channel setup wizard

In your Soneka workspace, go to Settings → Channels and click Add channel. Select WhatsApp Cloud API. Soneka will open the Meta embedded signup flow in a modal window.
2

Log in with Facebook and select your Business Manager

Click Continue with Facebook. Log in with the Facebook account that has admin access to your Meta Business Manager. If you’re creating a new Business Manager, enter your business name, your name, and your business email, then click Next.
3

Create or select a WhatsApp Business Account (WABA)

Meta will ask you to create a new WABA or connect an existing one. For most new users, choose Create a new WhatsApp Business Account. Enter your business display name — this is what customers see as the sender name in WhatsApp — and select your business category and timezone.
4

Add your phone number

Enter the phone number you want to connect. Choose your verification method: SMS or Voice call. Meta sends a six-digit code to that number. Enter the code in the verification field to confirm ownership.
If you receive an error saying the number is already registered with WhatsApp, you must first open WhatsApp on the device using that number, go to Settings → Account → Delete my account, and complete the deletion. Wait a few minutes before retrying the verification step.
5

Complete setup in Soneka

Once Meta confirms the number, the embedded signup modal closes and Soneka automatically stores your WABA credentials. Your new channel appears in Settings → Channels with a green Connected status. The number is now live — inbound messages will appear in your shared inbox within seconds.
To apply for the green verification tick (the verified business checkmark next to your display name), go to Settings → Channels, click your connected number, and select Apply for green tick. Soneka submits the request to Meta on your behalf. Approval typically takes 2–7 business days and requires your Meta Business Manager to be verified.

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After connecting your number

Once your number is connected by any method, these are the recommended next steps to get it production-ready.

Create message templates

Submit your first Meta-approved template so you can initiate outbound conversations and broadcasts.

Set up Auto-Reply

Configure welcome messages and out-of-hours responses so inbound contacts always get an immediate reply.

Invite your team

Add agents to your shared inbox and set up assignment rules so conversations reach the right person automatically.

Build your first flow

Automate your most common conversation patterns — lead capture, appointment booking, order status — in the Flow Builder.
If you run into issues during number connection, contact Soneka support at connect@soneka.africa or WhatsApp +254 722 685 776. Include your workspace name and the connection method you’re using, and a support engineer will help you troubleshoot.