The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has flagged at least 21 brands of mobile phones in the Kenyan market and ordered vendors across the country to stop selling the gadgets with immediate effect.
In a statement on February 10, 2026, the authority also warned the public to be wary of illegal mobile phones in the market.
“The Authority, through a Type Approval process, ensures that all ICT devices comply with national and international standards related to safety, health, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC,” the statement read.
Through market surveillance, the Authority observed an increase in the sale of non-type-approved mobile phones.
According to the CA post, non-type mobile phones pose a safety and health risk to users, and it is the CA’s responsibility to protect consumers.
In the statement, CA listed 21 specific mobile phone brands that are not type-approved in Kenya.
The brands include TINSIK, BUNDY, X.ODA, REALFONE, QQMEE, SMBA, F+, U-FM, Q-SEVEN, FONROX, CHATADA, UGBAD, MEZ, SUPERX, FT, NEMOJO, MOMOFLY, RAENO, VUE, WR and SWITCH.
CA advised the public to avoid buying these brands, and the vendors are strictly forbidden from selling the brands.
Additionally, the public should ensure they purchase phones from licensed telecommunications equipment vendors listed on the Authority’s website.
Also Read: List of Kenyan Counties with Lowest Mobile Phone Ownership and Internet Usage
“Verify that any mobile phone they purchase has been type-approved by the Authority by checking the list of type-approved equipment available on the Authority’s website,” the notice stated.
Verification of the mobile phones will ensure that mobile users are free of the health and safety risks that may result from non-type-approved devices.
Mobile users are to check the authenticity of the phones before purchase to ensure that they do not buy the non- type approved.
Mobile phone verification
Through the CA website, an individual can easily verify the brand of the phone.
For verification, one must cross-check the brand against those listed by CA under the Type Approved/Rejected equipment.
Also Read: M-KOPA Mobile Phone Hackers Caught in the Act
Mobile phone Authentication
Before making any purchase, the consumer should authenticate the device by dialling *#06#.
Dialling the USSD reveals a 15-digit International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI), a unique numeric identifier.
After obtaining the IMEI, one should text it to 1555 to initiate the authentication process.
Alternatively, one can authenticate the brand on the CA website for free.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
