iMessage/Facetime issue on new MTN number

<p>I recently acquired the MTN Cyber Monday 1200gb promotion on a new sim and cell number. I am unable to associate the new number with my iMessage/Facetime account (using the sim on an iPhone). The reason being the international sms required to be sent/received to activate the service, isn't reaching the respective Apple servers. International sms functionality is not active on this number!!</p> <p> </p> <p>I've tried finding a solution via 808/1555/173, a brick and mortar store, twitter via PM to MTNZAService (they claim a resolution is being sort reference number SMC/ ********** 9686.), emails to the sales rep who sold me the deal (cc'ed her boss too MTN CEO Mr Dabengwa) but to date no repsonse from either (the head of the fish rots from the head down) and the issue remains unresolved!</p> <p> </p> <p>Surely it cannot be that difficult to simply activate the international sms functionality on my new number and sim card? It should in fact be on by default!!! Why isn't it??!</p> <p> </p> <p>What an incredibly frustrating process this has been!! Unbelievably good promotion, unbelievably poor after sales service!! </p>