Govt Issues New Rules for Approval, Sale and Use of Mobile Phones in Kenya

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has released new technical specifications that will guide the approval, sale, and use of mobile phones in the country.

In a notice issued by Director General and CEO David Mugonyi on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the Authority said the 2026 guidelines are part of ongoing efforts to enhance the quality, safety, and reliability of mobile devices available to Kenyan consumers.

“It is notified for the general public and ICT sector stakeholders, comprising of ICT equipment vendors, local mobile phone assemblers and mobile phone manufacturers, that the Authority has developed Technical Specifications for use during the type approval process for mobile cellular devices meant for sale and use in Kenya,” read part of the notice.

What the New CA Rules Cover

According to the CA, the specifications will be applied during the type approval process, a mandatory certification required of all mobile devices before they are sold or used in Kenya.

The updated framework focuses on several key areas:

• Device safety standards to protect users from potential hazards.
• Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) to ensure devices do not interfere with other electronics.
• Radiation limits in line with health and safety requirements.
• Environmental considerations, including proper disposal and sustainability.

The Authority noted that these measures are designed to guarantee better Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for users across mobile networks.

The new specifications will directly affect key players in the mobile phone supply chain, including manufacturers, importers, ICT equipment vendors, and local phone assemblers.

These stakeholders will be required to ensure that all devices meet the updated technical and regulatory standards before they can be approved for sale and use in Kenya.

The CA has made the full technical specifications available on its official website under the Type Approval section, urging stakeholders to review and comply with the new requirements.

Also Read: CA Moves to Introduce Permit Processing Fee for Imports

About the Communications Authority of Kenya

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is the statutory regulator of the country’s ICT sector, overseeing telecommunications, broadcasting, cybersecurity, e-commerce, and postal and courier services.

It is also responsible for managing frequency spectrum resources and administering the Universal Service Fund, which supports the expansion of ICT access across underserved areas.

In addition, the Authority licenses all systems and services within the communications industry, including telecommunications, broadcasting, and postal services.

Also Read: CA Flags Mobile Phone Brands Kenyans Should Avoid Over Safety & Health Concerns

It conducts type approval of communications equipment to ensure devices used in Kenya meet the required technical and safety standards.

The CA also plays a key role in protecting consumer rights within the communications environment, promoting fair competition to ensure a level playing field for industry players, and regulating both retail and wholesale tariffs for communication services.

Further, the Authority monitors licensees to ensure compliance with licence terms, regulations, and the law, while managing the Universal Service Fund to facilitate equitable access to communication services nationwide.

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CA Boss David Mugonyi speaking during the official launch of the 2024 KUZA ICT Awards on April 17, 2024. PHOTO/CA