NAIROBI, Kenya – The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a warning to landlords, property owners, and building managers against blocking or restricting access to licensed telecommunication providers in their premises.
In a directive issued Tuesday, CA Director General David Mugonyi said the Authority had received complaints about some premises either denying access to certain service providers or favouring specific companies, thereby locking out competition.
“This is not only discriminatory but a direct violation of consumer rights and existing communication laws,” Mugonyi said.
The CA said such practices infringe on the right of consumers to choose their preferred service providers and go against provisions of the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, as well as Chapter Four of the Constitution on the Bill of Rights, which guarantees access to information.
“Consumers and users of communication services have a right to choose their service provider from among the licensed entities,” the notice read in part.
Under Section 84U of the law, no licensed provider may deny access to a customer except for reasons such as non-payment or other valid causes.
Section 84V also mandates that providers must offer equal access to services without discrimination, and apply similar tariffs unless technological factors justify otherwise.
CA’s New Compliance Measures
To enforce fairness and transparency in the ICT sector, CA has now directed:
- All landlords and property managers must grant equal and fair access to all licensed service providers.
- Buildings must not lock in or favour one provider at the expense of others.
- Only licensed and compliant communication providers should be allowed to install services. A full register is available on CA’s website at www.ca.go.ke/licensee-register.
- Any communication system installed within a building must be supported by a compliance certificate issued by the Authority. This certificate must be visibly displayed within the premises.
- Property managers must safeguard ICT installations against tampering, damage or vandalism.
“This directive is part of our ongoing efforts to enhance competition, ensure consumer choice, and promote affordable, accessible, and high-quality ICT services across the country,” the CA stated.
The Authority warned that dealing with unlicensed providers not only poses security and service risks but also undermines national ICT goals.
“ICT services are critical in powering the socio-economic development of our country. We urge members of the public to engage only with authorised providers to protect their interests,” the statement added.
The new directive is expected to significantly improve access to internet and mobile services, particularly in residential and commercial buildings where complaints about restricted service options have been growing.
