The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has announced a comprehensive update to its approval process for radio and telecommunications terminal equipment (RTTE).
This move is part of an ongoing effort to safeguard public interest, promote consumer safety, and enhance the integrity of Kenya’s telecommunications infrastructure. All RTTE devices meant for use in Kenya must now undergo strict type approval to ensure compliance with both national and international standards.
The CA, which regulates ICT services in Kenya, including telecommunications, broadcasting, cybersecurity, and e-commerce, stated that the newly reinforced approval process applies to all ICT equipment. This encompasses devices such as routers, mobile handsets, and other communication terminals. “The type approval ensures that equipment used in the country is safe, secure, and up to the required quality standards, both locally and internationally,” the CA said in its public notice.
The authority highlighted that type approval is mandatory for all manufacturers, vendors, importers, and service providers. Any equipment that fails to meet these standards or bypasses approval will be prohibited from sale, distribution, or use within the country. The CA further explained that non-compliance could lead to severe penalties. “We will not allow unapproved equipment to be connected to the Public Switched Telecommunications Network (PSTN),” the notice emphasized.
The public notice also pointed out the CA’s role in facilitating ICT trade. Through its partnership with the Kenya Trade Network Agency (Ken Trade) and the National Single Window System, the authority oversees the clearance of permits for type-approved equipment to simplify cross-border ICT trade.
The CA has published a comprehensive list of type-approved devices on its website, encouraging stakeholders to consult the register to ensure compliance.
