Aviation Agency Warns Against Use of Unlicensed Drones for Political Campaigns

The Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) has raised concern over the use of unlicensed drones for political campaigns ahead of the August 9th elections.

KCAA Director-General Captain Gilbert Kibe says the agency is concerned by the increased drone activity in the country in the recent past.

It has emerged that only 200 out of the more than 1,000 Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) currently operating in Kenya are licensed.

While calling for proper use of the Kenyan airspace during the electioneering period, Captain Kibe said KCAA plans to retrain pilots and aircraft owners on basic safety protocol due to the high number of helicopters traversing the country for political campaigns.

Kibe, who spoke in Kisumu on Friday, noted that a majority of people using drones for both private and commercial activities in the country do not have knowledge of the existing regulations on licensing and the security risks concerned.

Following the passing of the Civil Aviation (Regulatory Fees and Charges for UAS) Regulations 2020, Kenyans and entities wishing to own and operate drones are required to pay a registration fee of Sh3,000.

The regulations categorize drones based on the risks posed by their operations, from low risks to high risks under 3 categories. KCAA considers the purpose of the drone and risks to public safety and security in registering, issuing approvals, and authorizations for operations.