The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has reinforced its enforcement of Type Approval requirements for telecom and radio equipment, including devices operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.
The authority now strictly requires all Type Approval applications to include physical sample submissions. Applications submitted without physical samples are being rejected, despite this requirement already existing within the official approval process. The rule applies to all categories of equipment, including large devices such as network switches and televisions, while any exemptions will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
In addition, the CA now requires Short Range Devices (SRD) and Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) devices operating in the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to formally obtain Type Approval certification. Applicable devices include：
- Bluetooth devices (headsets, wearable devices, sensors)
- ZigBee/IEEE 802.15.4 smart home and IoT devices (sensors, smart bulbs)
- Wireless keyboards, mice, and other peripherals
- RF remote controls and toy controllers
- Short-range telemetry and industrial sensors operating in the 2.4 GHz ISM band
- Certain RFID systems using 2.4 GHz
The authority clarified that the physical sample requirement is not a new regulation, but rather a stricter enforcement of an existing requirement. Manufacturers and importers are advised to ensure that physical samples are included in all submissions and that applicable wireless devices obtain Type Approval certification to avoid delays or rejection of applications.