【CAK】Kenya Enforces Mandatory Certification for Short-Range and Wireless Devices
If you are manufacturing, importing, or distributing wireless products targetting East African markets, please take note of an important regulatory enforcement. The Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) has clarified and strictly enforced type approval mandates for Short-Range Devices (SRDs) and Wireless LAN (WLAN) equipment operating within the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands.
To maintain legal market entry and avoid customs delays or potential product seizures, your products must possess a valid CAK Type Approval Certificate before hitting the Kenyan market.
Affected Product Categories
The mandatory certification applies to a vast range of everyday consumer and industrial wireless applications, including but not limited to:
- Bluetooth Devices: Headsets, wearables, smartwatches, and wireless sensors.
- Smart Home & IoT: Smart bulbs, connected home appliances, and Internet of Things nodes.
- Wireless Peripherals: Wireless keyboards, computer mice, and similar desktop accessories.
- RF Remote Controllers: Radio frequency remote controls, including those used for radio-controlled toys.
- Telemetry & Industrial Sensors: Short-range telemetry hardware and industrial sensors operating specifically in the 2.4 GHz ISM band.
- RFID Systems: Radio Frequency Identification tracking systems operating in the 2.4 GHz band.
Key Compliance Insights for Kenya:
- Testing Basis: CAK heavily recognizes European ETSI standards (RF, EMC, Safety, and SAR test reports). If your products already hold CE markings, the approval process is significantly smoother.
- ‼️New 2026 Sample Requirement: Please be aware that CAK now strictly requires at least one physical product sample for visual inspection alongside your technical documentation.
For further inquiries, please contact:
Email：Charles.liao@theonelab.co
Phone：(02)8601-2828
