The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has introduced a mandatory Communications Equipment Distributor (CED) licence for businesses importing and distributing communications equipment in the country.
In a public notice issued on Monday, July 21, the regulator said the new requirement follows the Revised Telecommunications Market Structure, which was gazetted on March 6, 2026.
The new licence applies to businesses importing and distributing communications equipment such as mobile phones, routers, modems and other telecommunications devices.
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA). Photo: Courtesy.
Under the new framework, any entity intending to import or distribute communications equipment on a wholesale basis must first obtain a CED licence.
Once licensed, the business will be eligible to have its equipment type-approved by the Communications Authority and cleared through the TradeNet system.
The regulator clarified that the requirement applies to both new entrants and existing businesses in the sector.
As a result, companies that already hold a Telecommunications Equipment Contractor (TEC) licence or a vendor licence must also apply for the new CED licence if they wish to continue importing or distributing communications equipment.
The Communications Authority said the requirement takes effect immediately, meaning existing licensees can no longer rely solely on their current licences to undertake importation or distribution activities.
Businesses seeking more information have been directed to the Communications Authority’s website, where details of the revised telecommunications market structure have been published.
The regulator further reminded industry players that operating without the appropriate licence is an offence under the Kenya Information and Communications Act. Violators risk penalties that include a fine of up to KSh1 million, imprisonment for up to three years, or both.
