The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a stern warning to consumers against purchasing 21 brands of non-type approved mobile phones, highlighting potential safety, health, and interference risks associated with the devices.
In a public notice, the regulatory agency, which oversees telecommunications, cybersecurity, e-commerce, broadcasting, and postal services in Kenya, emphasized that all ICT devices must go through a Type Approval process to ensure compliance with national and international standards.
The process safeguards users from hazardous products, minimizes health risks, and prevents harmful interference with other electronic equipment.
“Through market surveillance, the Authority has noted an influx of Non-Type Approved mobile phones which pose a safety and health risk to the users,” the statement said.
The identified brands include TINSIK, REALFONE, F, MEZ, NEMOJO, UGBAD, VUE, BUNDY, QQMEE, FONROX, CHATADA, SUPERX, MOMOFLY, WR, XODA, SMBA, U-FM, Q-SEVEN, FT, RAENO, and SWITCH.
The CA cautioned consumers to avoid buying these phones and reiterated that vendors are strictly prohibited from selling them.
“Not to buy the above non-type approved brands of mobile phones, and vendors are strictly prohibited from selling the same,” the notice advised.
To ensure safety and authenticity, consumers are urged to purchase mobile phones only from licensed telecommunication equipment vendors listed on the CA website at https://www.ca.go.ke/licensee-register.
The Authority also provides tools for verification before purchase, including checking the type approval list online or verifying the 15-digit IMEI number.
This can be done by dialing *#06# and sending the IMEI via SMS to 1555, or by using the CA’s IMEI checker online, free of charge.
For clarification, members of the public can contact the CA directly through 0703 042000, 0730 172000, or via email at [email protected].
David Mugonyi, the CA Director General/CEO, highlighted the importance of compliance, noting that “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.”
The CA maintains regional offices across Eldoret, Mombasa, Nyeri, and Kisumu to support consumer inquiries and enforcement efforts, underscoring its commitment to protecting ICT users throughout Kenya.
