The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has rolled out new 2026 compliance standards for phones sold in Kenya.
CA’s Chief Executive Officer, David Mugonyi, issued a notice on March 24, announcing new technical specifications for mobile cellular devices in 2026, to guide the approval of phones used in Kenya.
According to the notice, the authority targets ICT equipment vendors, local mobile phone assemblers, and manufacturers involved in supplying devices to the Kenyan market.
Further, it explained that the specifications will be applied during the type approval process for all mobile devices intended for sale and use in Kenya to ensure that devices meet required standards on safety, electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), radiation, and environmental considerations.
“It is notified for the general public and ICT sector stakeholders comprising of ICT equipment vendors, local mobile phone assemblers and mobile phone manufacturers, that the Authority has developed Technical Specifications for use during the type approval process for mobile cellular devices meant for sale and use in Kenya,” read the CA notice in part.
Also Read: Communications Authority Issues Notice to Importers of ICT Products
The Communications Authority assured that the move is aimed at enhancing the quality of service (QoS) and quality of experience (QoE) for users, while safeguarding consumer interests.
“The Authority’s role spans standardisation of telecommunications services and equipment to guarantee enhanced Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for consumers when using telecommunications services,” it stated.
CA Technical Specifications for Mobile Cellular Devices in Kenya
According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, mobile cellular devices sold or used in Kenya must meet specific technical and safety requirements for type approval.
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- Identification
Every device must have a valid 15-digit IMEI issued by the GSMA. The IMEI must be permanently printed on the handset and accessible by dialling *#06#. This ensures each phone is uniquely identifiable and traceable for regulatory and security purposes. - Network Compatibility
Devices must support the 2G, 3G, and 4G frequency bands used locally, including GSM 900/1800, UTRA FDD, and E-UTRA (LTE). Compliance with standards such as ETSI EN 301 511 and ETSI EN 301 908 ensures that devices function properly across Kenya’s telecommunications networks. - Radiation Safety
Phones must comply with Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) limits of no more than 2 W/kg over 10 grams of tissue. Manufacturers are required to provide certified SAR test reports from accredited laboratories, protecting users from excessive exposure to electromagnetic radiation. - Labelling and User Information
Devices must display durable labels showing model name, IMEI, supported frequency bands, supplier, and CA type approval information. Safety guidance, especially regarding radiation exposure, must appear in the user manual or on the packaging, ensuring consumers have essential usage information. - Electrical and Safety Requirements
Chargers and adaptors must meet national standards and align with ITU-T L.1000 specifications, operating around 240V. Devices must also meet thresholds for overheating, short circuits, and mechanical risks to prevent fire hazards, electric shocks, or physical injury. - Functionality
All devices must support voice calls and SMS, while 3G and 4G models must also provide data and internet services. Keypads should follow ITU-T E.161 layout standards, and an earpiece option, wired or Bluetooth-compliant, must be available to ensure usability and accessibility. - Software and Updates
Devices must allow updates to be installed to fix security vulnerabilities and maintain compliance with technical standards. This ensures long-term device security and proper operation throughout its lifecycle.
