NAIROBI, Kenya — The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has barred the sale and use of 21 mobile phone brands in the country, warning that the devices have not undergone mandatory regulatory approval and may pose safety and health risks to consumers.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, CA Director General David Mugonyi cautioned against what he described as an influx of “non-type approved” mobile phones into the Kenyan market.
Among the brands listed are; Tinsik, Realfone, F+, Fonrox, Mez, Nemojo, Vue, Bundy, Qqmee, U-FM, Chatada, Superx, Momofly, WR, X Oda, Smba, Q-Seven, Ugbad, FT, Raeno, and Switch.
The regulator has directed vendors to cease the sale and distribution of the affected brands and urged consumers to avoid purchasing them.
Kenya’s type approval framework requires all Information and Communications Technology (ICT) devices to be tested and certified before being introduced into the local market.
Devices that fail to meet these standards risk being confiscated, and sellers may face penalties under the Kenya Information and Communications Act.
“Check the authenticity of the mobile phones before purchase, by dialing *#06# and sending the 15-digit IMEI number as an SMS to 1555, or on the CA website free of charge,” stated Mugonyi.
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) verification system enables consumers to confirm whether a device is recognised within the national regulatory database.
“The Authority, through a Type Approval process, ensures that all ICT devices comply with national and international standards related to safety, health and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), thereby protecting consumers from hazardous products, minimizing health risks and preventing harmful interference with other electronic equipment.”
Rising concern over counterfeit and substandard devices
The ban comes amid growing concern over the proliferation of counterfeit and substandard electronic devices in Kenya’s retail market.
Industry stakeholders estimate that a significant share of low-cost handsets sold in informal outlets lack proper certification, raising risks ranging from battery explosions and excessive radiation exposure to network interference.
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In recent years, the CA has intensified market surveillance operations in collaboration with the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) and law enforcement agencies to curb the entry of uncertified gadgets.
Authorities argue that substandard devices not only endanger users but also undermine fair competition for compliant manufacturers and authorised distributors.
Consumers are advised to purchase devices only from licensed dealers and to verify approval status through the CA’s official platforms before completing transactions.
The regulator has not indicated whether further enforcement measures, including product recalls or seizures, will follow the directive.
