The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has moved to clear the air following reports suggesting that low-cost mobile phones could soon be banned in the country.
In a statement issued on Thursday, March 26, the regulator addressed public concern sparked by the release of the Technical Specifications for Mobile Cellular Devices 2026 on Tuesday, March 24, which had been widely interpreted as targeting affordable handsets.
However, the authority firmly dismissed the claims, noting that information circulating online had misrepresented the intent of the new guidelines.
Communications Authority of Kenya Debunks Rumors of Low-Cost Mobile Phone Ban. Photo: Courtesy.
According to the CA, the updated specifications are aimed at strengthening consumer protection, ensuring better device compatibility across networks, reducing electronic waste, and aligning Kenya with international standards in mobile device manufacturing and sustainability.
The regulator clarified that the new rules strictly apply to the approval process for mobile devices entering the Kenyan market, including smartphones, feature phones, and tablets.
It explained that the updated specifications guide the technical requirements used during the type approval stage for devices intended for sale, importation, assembly, or use in Kenya, and are not aimed at restricting access to affordable phones.
CA further noted that the revised standards introduce new requirements on charging interfaces for devices seeking approval.
Under the new guidelines, all mobile cellular devices submitted for type approval from March 24, 2026, must support USB Type-C charging and feature cables that can be detached from the power adapter, in line with international best practices.
The authority reassured Kenyans that the new directive will not affect devices already in use or those that had received prior approval.
It clarified that phones and tablets approved before March 24, 2026, as well as those currently in circulation, remain fully legal. Users can continue to own, use, and purchase existing stock without any restrictions.
The regulator also noted that devices already in transit to Kenya or awaiting shipment will not be impacted by the updated requirements, emphasizing that all mobile devices must undergo type approval before being imported into the country.
Additionally, the Communications Authority explained that technical specifications are used to assess new applications for device approval, meaning the updated rules apply only to future submissions and do not require a transition period.
