CA Moves to Introduce Permit Processing Fee for Imports

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA), through its Director General, David Mugonyi, has announced plans to introduce a new permit processing fee for ICT equipment imports processed through the National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS).

In a notice dated Tuesday, March 17, 2026, the Authority said the proposed fee will apply to import permit applications submitted via the KenTrade-managed system, which is used to streamline trade and regulatory approvals for goods entering the country.

CA noted that it plays a key role in regulating ICT imports by evaluating permit applications to ensure all equipment meets the country’s technical and regulatory standards. The evaluation process involves checking, verification, and inspection before approval is granted.

“The Authority hereby notifies all stakeholders of its intention to introduce a Permit Processing Fee for permits processed through the National Electronic Single Window System,” the notice stated.

The regulator has invited members of the public, importers, exporters, customs clearing agents, licensees, and other ICT sector stakeholders to submit their views on the proposal.

Details of the proposed fee structure are outlined in a consultation paper available on the CA website. Stakeholders have until April 30, 2026, to submit written feedback via email to permits@ca.go.ke.

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About the National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS)

The National Electronic Single Window System (NESWS) is an online government platform that enables traders, importers, exporters, transporters, clearing agents, and other stakeholders to submit regulatory documents and information just once when engaging in cross‑border trade.

Instead of interacting separately with multiple government agencies, such as customs, health, agriculture, standards bodies, and transport regulators, users can submit all required paperwork through a single online portal. The system then automatically shares that information with all relevant agencies.

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About the Communications Authority of Kenya and its Roles

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is the regulatory agency for the Information Communications and Technology (ICT) sector in Kenya established by the Kenya Information and Communications Act, CAP 411A (KICA), with regulatory oversight over the provision of telecommunications, radio communications, broadcasting, electronic transactions, the country’s numbering and frequency spectrum resources as well as postal and courier services.

Its responsibility entails:

Licensing all systems and services in the communications industry, including telecommunications, postal, courier and broadcasting.
Managing the country’s frequency spectrum and numbering resources.
Facilitating the development and management of a national cybersecurity framework.
Facilitating the development of e-commerce.
Type approving and accepting communications equipment meant for use in the country.
Protecting consumer rights within the communications environment.
Managing competition within the sector to ensure a level playing ground for all players.
Regulating retail and wholesale tariffs for communications services.

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