The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has announced new regulations requiring businesses involved in the importation and wholesale distribution of communications equipment to obtain a new licence before operating.
In a notice issued on July 21, the regulator said all entities intending to import or distribute communications equipment must apply for a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) licence before undertaking such activities.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
The notice, signed by Communications Authority Director General and Chief Executive Officer David Mugonyi, states that the new requirement follows the Revised Telecommunications Market Structure published under Gazette Notice No. 3335 on March 6, 2026, in accordance with the Kenya Information and Communications Act (Cap. 411A).
According to the Authority, businesses seeking to import communications equipment for type approval by the regulator must first secure the CED licence. The licence will also be required to facilitate the clearance of equipment through the TradeNet system.
The regulator has further directed existing holders of Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) and Vendor Licences who intend to continue importing or distributing communications equipment to transition to the new Communications Equipment Distributor licence with immediate effect.
The Communications Authority is responsible for regulating Kenya’s information and communications sector, including telecommunications, broadcasting, cyber security, e-commerce, postal and courier services.
It also oversees the management of the country’s numbering and radio frequency spectrum resources, administers the Universal Service Fund and safeguards the interests of ICT consumers.
The Authority said the introduction of the CED licence forms part of reforms under the revised telecommunications market framework aimed at strengthening regulation of communications equipment in the country.
Businesses have been advised to consult the Communications Authority for information on licence categories, eligibility requirements, applicable fees, licence terms and the application process as implementation of the new regulations begins.
