NAIROBI, Kenya — The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has activated the country’s first trial of Digital Sound Broadcasting (DSB) services in Nairobi, marking a milestone in the evolution of radio as the world marks World Radio Day 2026.
The regulator said the rollout signals the start of Kenya’s transition toward digital radio platforms while maintaining existing FM services.
Sound broadcasting remains one of Kenya’s most accessible media platforms, reaching about 98 P.c of households and supporting more than 300 licensed broadcast services.
However, the Communications Authority noted that FM frequencies in VHF Band II (87.5–108.0 MHz) are saturated in major urban centres.
This has limited room for new entrants and led to interference and compromised audio quality.
In 2023, the Authority developed a Digital Sound Broadcasting framework focusing on Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB+) in VHF Band III (174–230 MHz) and Digital Radio Mondiale in the HF band (30 MHz).
The framework underwent stakeholder consultations involving broadcasters, signal distributors, equipment vendors, government agencies, and industry associations.
In 2025, the CA authorised two firms — Signet Signal Distributors Ltd and Mast Rental Services Ltd — to deploy trial DSB networks.
Mast Rental Services became the first operator to roll out a DAB+ trial network in January 2026. The network currently carries 14 radio programmes within Nairobi’s coverage area.
According to the regulator, digital broadcasting will allow multiple radio services to operate on a single frequency block. This separation of content provision from signal distribution is expected to reduce transmission costs and lower barriers to entry, particularly for community broadcasters and new investors.
“Broadcasters will be able to focus on compelling content while leveraging shared digital infrastructure,” the Authority said in a statement.
For listeners, the shift promises clearer sound quality, reduced interference, and a wider range of programming. The CA also highlighted the potential for value-added data services, including station information and programme details transmitted alongside audio content.
The Authority clarified that the digital rollout will complement — not immediately replace — existing FM services. No analogue switch-off date has been set. The phased rollout will initially target the Mombasa–Nairobi–Kisumu corridor and other major population centres.
Over the 12-month trial period, the regulator will monitor signal coverage, service quality, affordability of receivers, and public awareness levels to guide policy decisions on broader implementation.
