The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has introduced new mandatory requirements for businesses importing and distributing mobile phones and other communications equipment in Kenya following changes to the country’s telecommunications market structure.
In a notice on July 21, the Authority said any entity intending to import and wholesale communications equipment must obtain a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) License before importing devices, securing type approval and obtaining clearance through the TradeNet system.
“Following the Revised Telecommunications Market Structure that was gazetted through Gazette Notice Number 3335 on March 6th, 2026, pursuant to the Kenya Information and Communications Act, Cap. 411A, any entity that is interested in importing and wholesale distribution of any communication equipment is required to apply for a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) license in order to be able to import and have their equipment type approved by the Authority and cleared in the TradeNet system,” CA stated.
Further, the authority added that existing holders of Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) or Vendor licenses who wish to continue importing or distributing communications equipment are also required to apply for the CED license with immediate effect.
What the New CA -CED License Covers and Fees
The Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) License covers the importation, local purchase and wholesale distribution of telecommunications equipment and devices in Kenya.
It also allows holders to provide after-sales support by supplying spare parts to vendors that purchase communications equipment from them.
Communications Authority of Kenya requires all equipment distributed or sold under the license to be type-approved before entering the Kenyan market.
“The CEDs are to ensure that all the equipment they distribute or sell is type-approved,” CA notes in its scope.
However, the CED License does not permit the installation or maintenance of communications equipment, as these activities fall outside its scope.
Also Read: Communications Authority Rolls Out New Specifications for Phones Sold in Kenya
According to the authority, the license is valid for 15 years, and applicants will pay a Ksh 5,000 application fee, an initial license fee of KSh 250,000, and an annual operating fee of 0.4% of annual gross turnover or KSh 120,000, whichever is higher.
Notably, no spectrum fees are applicable.
How to Apply
Before applying, ensure you have at least:
- Certificate of Incorporation / Registration (from eCitizen/Registrar of Companies).
- CR12 (current company search).
- PIN Certificate for the company.
- ID/Passport of directors / key personnel.
- Business profile (nature of business, target equipment, import/wholesale model).
To apply for the license, applicants should begin by visiting the website at www.ca.go.ke, then navigate to the Licensing section, select Licensing Procedures, and access the License Application Forms page.
Also Read: Communications Authority Proposes Fees Targeting Importers and Customs Clearing Agents
Applicants should download the relevant application form for the Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) License and confirm the applicable application and annual license fees on the Authority’s licensing page.
The completed application form should include company details, the type of license being applied for, the scope of business, technical and operational information, and details of directors or key personnel. Applicants must also attach all the required supporting documents.
Applications may be submitted by delivering or posting the signed form, supporting documents and proof of payment to the Communications Authority’s offices. Where available, applicants may also submit their applications through the Authority’s online licensing portal.
The Authority advises applicants to follow the payment instructions provided in the application form and retain the payment receipt for submission with their application.
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