Govt warns against sale of unapproved mobile phones
By Kenneth Mwenda, February 10, 2026The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a stern warning to the public and mobile phone vendors about the use and sale of phones that lack official type approval.
On February 10, 2026, the authority released a public notice highlighting 21 brands that do not meet required safety and technical standards.
The CA is the main regulator for Kenya’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector. It oversees telecommunications, cybersecurity, broadcasting, e-commerce, and postal services. The authority also manages national numbering resources, frequency spectrum, and the Universal Service Fund, while protecting consumer interests.
Through its type approval process, the CA ensures that all ICT devices meet national and international safety, health, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) rules. This process protects consumers from unsafe products, reduces health risks, and prevents interference with other electronics.
Recent market checks showed a rise in mobile phones entering Kenya without type approval. These devices do not meet safety or technical standards and pose risks to users.
Public advised on safety
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.
The CA warned that non-approved phones are risky because they skip proper testing for radiation levels, build quality, and network compatibility. They can interfere with other devices, expose users to higher-than-allowed electromagnetic fields, or fail basic safety features such as battery protection.
The warning forms part of the CA’s wider effort to clean up the mobile phone market in Kenya. Previous regulations focused on tax compliance and IMEI registration for imported and locally assembled devices. This notice directly targets specific unapproved brands. Vendors are now banned from selling these phones, and the public is expected to play a role by refusing to buy them.