The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has notified the public and ICT stakeholders of new technical specifications for mobile cellular devices set to take effect for the year 2026.

In a public notice signed by Director General/CEO David Mugonyi on Tuesday, March 24, 2026, the authority said the specifications will be used during the type approval process for mobile cellular devices meant for sale and use in country.

“It is notified for the general public and ICT sector stakeholders comprising of ICT equipment vendors, local mobile phone assemblers and mobile phone manufacturers, that the Authority has developed Technical Specifications for use during the type approval process for mobile cellular devices meant for sale and use in Kenya,” CA stated.

CAK role for consumers

The Authority emphasized that its role includes the standardization of telecommunications services and equipment to guarantee enhanced Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for consumers.

According to the authority, they check the Safety, Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Radiations and Environmental concerns.

“The Authority’s role spans standardization of telecommunications services and equipment to guarantee enhanced Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for consumers when using telecommunication services. Through the Type Approval of ICT equipment, the Authority checks the Safety, Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC), Radiation and Environmental concerns,” CA said.

The specifications can be accessed on the Authority’s website under the Type Approval specifications tab of the Type Approval section at: https://www.ca.go.ke/market-structure.

Unapproved mobile phones

The Authority on February 10, 2026 issued a stern warning to the public and mobile phone vendors about the use and sale of phones that lack official type approval.

The authority released a public notice highlighting 21 brands that do not meet required safety and technical standards. The authority gave clear instructions to the public.

“The Authority advises the public as follows: a) Not to buy the above non-type-approved brands of mobile phones, and vendors are strictly prohibited from selling the same,” the notice reads.

Consumers are urged to buy phones only from licensed telecommunication equipment vendors. The full list of approved vendors is available on the CA website. Buyers should also verify type approval before making any purchase by checking the list of approved devices on the same website.