NAIROBI, Kenya – The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a directive to businesses and organizations involved in vehicle tracking and fleet management, requiring them to use only licensed Application Service Providers (ASPs) or face legal consequences.
In a public notice issued Tuesday by Director General David Mugonyi, the regulator cautioned that financial institutions, motor vehicle dealers, and both public and private sector entities must verify the licensing status of their tracking and asset management service providers.
“Entities are required to assess all current and planned tracking service engagements to ensure full compliance with licensing conditions,” the statement said.
The move is part of the Authority’s broader effort to enhance public safety, protect consumers from substandard tracking systems, and ensure all tracking technology used in Kenya meets legal and technical standards.
The CA, which regulates the ICT sector under the Kenya Information and Communications Act (1998), emphasized that failure to comply will result in enforcement action, including fines or prosecution.
Businesses Must Verify Compliance or Risk Penalties
Under Sections 24, 67, and 75 of the Act, any communication system operating without proper licensing is considered illegal.
The Authority warned that clients engaging with unlicensed tracking firms would be deemed to be operating those services internally — a move that requires direct licensing from CA.
“Any tracking services not accounted for will be deemed to be owned or operated internally, requiring direct licensing from the Authority,” the notice read.
The CA further urged companies to use its official register of licensed providers — available on www.ca.go.ke/licensee-register — to verify vendors before signing contracts or continuing existing engagements.
The regulator also reminded businesses that only providers with a valid Annual Compliance Certificate issued by the CA are allowed to offer tracking services.
National Push for Secure, Legal ICT Use
This directive follows increased scrutiny of illegal ICT practices across Kenya and forms part of CA’s mandate to ensure security, reliability, and quality in telecommunications, cybersecurity, broadcasting, e-commerce, and postal services.
“All stakeholders must act promptly to regularise their tracking systems. We will not hesitate to take action where the law is flouted,” said the Authority.
Institutions in need of assistance or clarification have been encouraged to contact the Communications Authority directly through its support channels.
