Mobile communication has become an indispensable part of our daily lives—from staying connected to loved ones to managing business transactions. But sometimes, you might find yourself in a pinch—no airtime, no data, and no way to reach someone urgently. That’s where the humble yet powerful “Please Call Me” service steps in.
In South Africa, this free USSD-based feature lets users send a simple callback request to any mobile number—even when they have zero airtime. Telkom, one of the country’s major telecommunications providers, supports this feature with easy-to-use codes that anyone can access.
This article explores everything you need to know about Telkom’s “Please Call Me” service: how it works, why it exists, who can use it, and how it fits into South Africa’s mobile culture.
What Is “Please Call Me” and Why Was It Created?
The “Please Call Me” service originated in South Africa in the early 2000s. It was first launched by Vodacom but quickly adopted by other major networks, including Telkom Mobile. The idea was simple: allow someone without airtime to send a message that says, “Please call me,” to another user.
The feature became wildly popular and deeply embedded in mobile culture across the country. It transformed how people—especially low-income users—could stay connected without needing to spend money. Even today, it remains a vital service, especially in emergencies or situations where recharging isn’t immediately possible.
From family members checking in from rural areas to job seekers coordinating interviews, the “Please Call Me” message became a tool of empowerment, accessibility, and social connection.
Telkom’s “Please Call Me” USSD Code: Quick and Simple Access
If you’re a Telkom South Africa user, sending a “Please Call Me” message is incredibly easy and requires no airtime, data, or app.
How to Send a Direct “Please Call Me” Message
To send the message manually using USSD:
1 Dial `*140*recipient’s number#`
2 Press the call/send button
Example:
If you want someone with the number 0812345678 to call you back, dial:
`*140*0812345678#`
You’ll receive a confirmation, and the recipient will get an SMS saying you’ve asked them to call you. It’s that straightforward.
Accessing the Call Me Menu
Alternatively, if you’d like to explore other options or send multiple requests:
1 Dial `*140#`
2 Press the call/send button
3 Follow the on-screen prompts to enter a mobile number and send your message
This version is helpful if you’re not confident typing in the full command or if you want more control through the guided menu.
Who Can Use Telkom’s “Please Call Me” Feature?
This feature is available to all Telkom prepaid and contract subscribers. You don’t need airtime, mobile data, or any special plan. As long as your Telkom SIM card is active and registered, the USSD code will work.
It’s especially useful for:
Students who are on limited mobile budgets
Job seekers coordinating interviews with potential employers
Individuals in rural areas with limited access to mobile top-up points
Seniors or non-tech-savvy users who prefer simple mobile solutions
Whether you’re sending a quick ping to a friend, a check-in to a loved one, or a request to a business contact, “Please Call Me” works reliably and securely.
Limitations and Daily Usage Caps
While the service is free, it’s not unlimited. Telkom applies fair usage policies to prevent spamming or misuse.
Users are typically allowed up to 5 “Please Call Me” messages per day
You can only send to valid South African mobile numbers
The recipient might not receive the message if their number is blocked or inactive
If you exceed your daily quota, you’ll receive a message stating that your limit has been reached. You’ll have to wait until the next day before sending additional messages.
Why Telkom’s “Please Call Me” Is Still Relevant in 2025
With the rise of apps, Wi-Fi calling, and mobile data packages, some might argue that USSD services are outdated. But Telkom’s “Please Call Me” is still relevant—here’s why:
1 Emergency Communication
If you’re stranded without airtime, you can still send a message asking someone to call you. It’s a lifeline in urgent situations where time is critical.
2 Social Inclusivity
Not everyone has access to smart devices or premium data plans. This service ensures all Telkom users—regardless of income—can stay connected.
3 Battery Efficiency
Unlike apps that require internet and can drain battery, USSD codes use minimal power and work on low-end phones.
4 No Downloads Required
The feature works on virtually any mobile phone—from basic handsets to the latest smartphones.
Practical Scenarios for Using “Please Call Me”
To truly understand the value of Telkom’s callback service, consider the following examples of how it’s used in everyday life:
A Student on Campus
Sipho, a university student, forgets to top up his phone. He needs to call his mother to confirm travel arrangements. With no airtime and limited funds, he sends a “Please Call Me” via Telkom’s USSD code. His mother receives it instantly and calls back, solving the issue without delay.
A Job Seeker Waiting for Feedback
Nomusa just finished a job interview but can’t recharge her SIM immediately. She needs to reconnect with the HR department. Instead of waiting passively, she sends a “Please Call Me” to their office line. A few minutes later, she gets the callback—and lands her job.
A Rural Farmer Checking Market Prices
Lindiwe, a small-scale farmer, wants to contact her buyer in the city. Airtime isn’t available nearby, but her Telkom SIM works. She sends a “Please Call Me,” enabling her to arrange produce deliveries without leaving her village.
These stories underscore the functionality and impact of this simple yet powerful feature.
Expanding USSD Literacy: Empowering Users
One of the unsung benefits of services like “Please Call Me” is the way they foster digital literacy and independence. Especially among older or rural populations, mastering USSD codes empowers users to interact with mobile networks without relying on data-heavy apps.
It also builds confidence. Knowing how to send a free message, check your balance, or activate bundles via USSD puts control back into the user’s hands.
Telkom, alongside other providers, is investing in promoting USSD literacy through workshops, user-friendly guides, and telecom outreach programs across provinces.
Alternative Telkom USSD Services You Should Know
While “Please Call Me” is the star of this article, Telkom’s USSD suite offers several other handy codes:
Check Airtime Balance
Dial: *188#
Buy Data Bundles
Dial: *180#
Transfer Airtime to Another Number
Dial: *180# then select Airtime Transfer
Check Your Telkom Number
Dial: *1# to see your own number
View Available Promotions
Dial: *123# for offers, packages, and loyalty points
Knowing these codes helps users fully leverage Telkom’s mobile platform—whether they’re topping up, sharing airtime, or activating bundles.
The Role of “Please Call Me” in South Africa’s Telecom Legacy
South Africa’s unique socioeconomic landscape birthed innovations that addressed real community needs. “Please Call Me” is more than a telecom feature—it’s part of the country’s mobile legacy.
Its cultural footprint includes:
Millions of messages sent daily across networks
Language adaptations in isiZulu, isiXhosa, Sesotho, and Afrikaans
Memes and social media jokes centered on creative ways of sending “Please Call Me”
It also led to legal debates around intellectual property and fair compensation. The original inventor of the service, Nkosana Makate, famously engaged in legal action to be recognized and compensated for the idea—a story that added weight to the legacy of tech entrepreneurship in Africa.
Today, “Please Call Me” remains a symbol of innovation born out of necessity and executed with brilliance.
Final Thoughts
In a world flooded with apps, smart devices, and voice-activated assistants, the brilliance of a simple USSD code shouldn’t be underestimated. Telkom’s “Please Call Me” service continues to serve millions of users across South Africa—offering free, fast, and reliable communication when it matters most.
Whether you’re a student on a tight budget, a parent checking on their child, or a business contact confirming logistics, this feature bridges the gap in moments of need.
If you’re a Telkom user and haven’t made use of this service before, it’s time to try it out. It might just save your day.