Governments worldwide are increasingly requiring USB Type-C chargers as the standard for mobile devices.

In Kenya, a recent directive sparked public interest about why authorities are promoting a single charging system.

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) announced that all mobile phones and tablets sold, imported, or assembled in the country must now use USB Type-C chargers. This move is part of a wider global effort to simplify charging and reduce electronic waste.

Kenya’s new rules follow trends set by other regions, such as the European Union. In 2022, the EU passed Directive 2022/2380, mandating a common charger for most portable electronics sold in member countries. Kenya’s adoption of similar standards aligns it with these international practices.

In a public notice dated March 24, 2026, the CA provided technical guidelines for mobile devices. These regulations specify that the charging port must be USB Type-C, and the cable should be detachable from the power adapter.

“The charging solution for mobile cellular devices shall be USB Type-C,” the authority confirmed in its Technical Specifications for Mobile Cellular Devices, 2026.

Compliance with these standards is now a requirement for type approval, which all device importers must obtain before selling products in Kenya.

For devices already approved or currently in use, there will be no change.

Older phones and tablets that use proprietary connectors, such as Apple’s Lightning port on devices released before 2023, remain legal. Apple transitioned to USB Type-C with the iPhone 15 to meet European rules.

USB Type-C, often called USB-C, is a modern connector standard developed by the USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF). It has 24 pins and is reversible, meaning users can plug it in either way.

This solves a common frustration with older USB cables that only fit one way.

Beyond convenience, USB-C is versatile. A single port can handle multiple tasks at the same time, including charging, data transfer, video output, and powering accessories.

This all-in-one feature reduces the need for multiple ports and cables, simplifying the experience for consumers.

USB-C also supports high power and fast data transfer. Using USB Power Delivery (USB-PD), it can deliver up to 240 watts, enough to charge laptops in addition to smartphones and tablets. Data transfer speeds can reach 40 gigabits per second, suitable for tasks like video editing, large file transfers, and professional applications.

Safety concerns

The push for USB-C is driven by three main reasons: environmental protection, consumer convenience, and safety.

Standardising chargers helps reduce electronic waste. In the past, different manufacturers used their own connectors, forcing users to buy multiple chargers.

Many of these chargers were later discarded, adding to e-waste. With a universal charger, one cable works for multiple devices, lowering the number of accessories produced and thrown away.

For consumers, USB-C simplifies life. People no longer need to carry separate cables for different devices. A single USB-C cable can charge a smartphone, tablet, or laptop, as long as the power requirements are met. This is especially helpful for travellers and professionals who rely on multiple gadgets.

Safety is another consideration. USB-C cables and chargers follow strict technical standards, reducing risks associated with overheating, short circuits, or incompatible power supplies.

Overall, governments worldwide are moving toward USB Type-C to make technology safer, easier, and more environmentally friendly.

Kenya’s recent directive reflects a growing global trend, showing that universal charging standards are becoming a new norm.