Kenya could soon have a dedicated licensing framework for data centres. The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is seeking public views on a proposal that would regulate co-location data centre operations separately.
The proposed framework would create a standalone Data Centre licence category. It would replace the current approach of regulating such facilities under the Network Facilities Provider-Tier 2 licence. The CA says the change would provide greater clarity for operators and investors. It would also improve oversight of data centre activities in the country.
The regulator expects the framework to support investment in digital infrastructure. At the same time, it would align Kenya’s licensing system with approaches used in comparable jurisdictions. The proposed licence would cover companies that provide co-location data centre services. It would also include related supporting services.
In its notice, the CA said the new approach is intended to “provide regulatory clarity, enhance visibility over data centre operations, support investment in digital infrastructure.”
The Authority also linked the proposal to the growing importance of digital infrastructure. It said the framework would provide a clearer regulatory environment as the data centre sector develops.
The CA is now inviting industry players and the public to review the proposal. Stakeholders can submit their views within 30 days from the date the notice was published.
The Authority said the consultation is specifically focused on co-location data centre operations. “The Authority therefore invites stakeholders and the public to submit comments on the proposed licensing framework,” the notice read.
Comments can be submitted through post or hand delivery to the Director General of the Communications Authority of Kenya in Nairobi. Alternatively, stakeholders can submit their views electronically through the channel provided by the Authority.
The CA has also provided an email address for submissions at datacentres@ca.go.ke. Further information on the proposed framework is available through the Authority’s website.
The consultation will give data centre operators and other stakeholders an opportunity to shape the proposed rules. The final framework will therefore depend on the views received during the public participation process.