NAIROBI, Kenya, Feb 10 – The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has flagged 21 mobile phone brands currently in circulation in the local market, warning that the devices have not undergone mandatory type approval and pose safety and health risks to users.
The regulator in a notice said the phones fail to meet national and international standards on safety, health and electromagnetic compatibility after market surveillance revealed an influx of non-compliant devices.
“Through market surveillance, the Authority has noted an influx of non-type approved mobile phones which pose a safety and health risk to users,” read the notice in part.
“Vendors are strictly prohibited from selling the identified brands, and consumers are advised to buy mobile phones only from licensed dealers.”
The brands flagged by the Authority include 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.
CA said all ICT devices sold in Kenya must undergo type approval to ensure compliance with safety and health standards and to prevent harmful interference with other electronic equipment.
Consumers have been advised to verify whether a handset is type approved by checking the Authority’s website and to confirm device authenticity by dialling #06# to retrieve the IMEI number and sending the 15-digit code via SMS to **1555*, or by using the online IMEI checker at no cost.
The regulator said it will step up enforcement action against traders dealing in non-compliant devices as part of broader efforts to protect consumers and maintain integrity in Kenya’s ICT market.
