The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has announced new regulatory requirements for the import and wholesale distribution of communications equipment in Kenya.

New import licensing rules

Under the notice published by the Authority, companies intending to import and distribute communications equipment must obtain a Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) licence under the country's revised telecommunications licensing framework.

The requirement follows the revised telecommunications market structure published in Kenya Gazette Notice No. 3335 on 6 March 2026, made under the Kenya Information and Communications Act.

Under the new framework, companies wishing to import communications equipment must first obtain a CED licence before importing products, obtaining CA type approval and clearing goods through the TradeNet system.

The Authority also states clearly that companies currently holding Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) and supplier licences that engage in the import or distribution of communications equipment must apply immediately for a CED licence if they wish to continue that business.

The update is intended to strengthen supervision of communications equipment entering the Kenyan market and to align import and distribution activities with the revised market structure.

Companies importing telecommunications and wireless products should review the new licensing requirements carefully and assess whether additional licensing steps are needed.