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

According to a public notice issued by the Authority, businesses 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, which was gazetted through Gazette Notice No. 3335 on 6 March 2026 pursuant to the Kenya Information and Communications Act.

Under the new framework, companies seeking to import communications equipment must obtain a CED Licence before they can import products, obtain CA Type Approval, and complete customs clearance through the TradeNet system.

The Authority also clarified that existing Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) and Vendor Licence holders that currently import or distribute communications equipment must apply for a CED Licence with immediate effect if they wish to continue these activities.

The update is intended to strengthen oversight of communications equipment entering the Kenyan market while aligning importation and distribution activities with the revised telecommunications market structure.

Companies involved in importing telecommunications and wireless products into Kenya should review the new licensing requirements and assess whether additional licensing actions are required.

For Kenya Type Approval and regulatory compliance support, contact Nano Technology Solutions at info@nanotechsol.com.