COMMUNICATIONS AUTHORITY DENIES BAN ON AFFORDABLE PHONES

Communications Authority of Kenya has refuted claims circulating about a ban on affordable mobile phones, describing the reports as false and a misinterpretation of its recent directive.

The Authority issued a public notice outlining updated technical specifications for the type approval process applicable to mobile devices intended for sale, importation, assembly, or use within Kenya.

The notice stipulated that, effective immediately, all mobile phone importers and dealers seeking type approval must ensure their devices feature a USB Type-C charging port, with a detachable cable from the power adapter. The Authority stated that these specifications align with internationally accepted standards.

Under Kenyan law, all mobile phone importers are required to secure type approval from the Authority before bringing devices into the country. In a follow-up statement released on Thursday, March 26, the Authority clarified that handsets and tablets already approved, or currently in circulation and in use by Kenyans, remain lawful.

The Authority stated that there is no prohibition on the use, ownership, or continued sale of existing stock that received prior approval. It also confirmed that type-approved devices already in transit or awaiting shipment are exempt from the new requirements.

Officials further assured the public that the notice was not directed at any specific economic demographic, nor does it compel anyone to discard their current devices.