CA Requires New Licence for Communications Equipment Importers and Distributors

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has introduced new licensing requirements for the importation and distribution of communications equipment. The new rules apply to both prospective applicants and existing licensees and take immediate effect.

In a public notice, the Authority said the changes follow the Revised Telecommunications Market Structure gazetted through Gazette Notice No. 3335 of March 6, 2026, under the Kenya Information and Communications Act.

The new framework requires businesses involved in importing and wholesale distribution of communications equipment to obtain a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) licence.

According to the notice, “any entity that is interested in importing and wholesale distribution of any communication equipment is required to apply for a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) licence in order to be able to import and have their equipment type approved by the Authority and cleared in the TradeNet system.”

The regulator further directed existing holders of Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) or Vendor Licences to transition to the new licensing framework if they intend to continue importing or distributing communications equipment.

“Existing licensees with Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) or Vendor Licences who want to continue importing or distributing communications equipment are also required to apply, with immediate effect, for a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) Licence,” the notice stated.

CA said full details on licence categories, eligibility criteria, licence terms, fees and application procedures are available on its website, urging current and prospective licensees as well as industry stakeholders to comply with the new regulatory requirements.