Kenyans Warned: Avoid These 21 Non-Compliant Phone Brands

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a public warning against the sale and use of mobile phones that have not undergone its mandatory type-approval process, naming 21 non-compliant brands currently in the market.

In a notice released on Tuesday, the regulator said the identified devices do not meet national safety and technical standards and should not be sold or purchased. Brands listed include Tinsik, Realfone, F+, Fonrox, Mez, Nemojo, Vue, Bundy, Qqmee, U-Fm and Chatada, as well as Superx, Momofly, Wr, X.Oda, Smba, Q-Seven, Ugbad, Ft, Raeno and Switch.

The Authority stated that vendors are prohibited from selling the flagged models, while consumers have been advised to avoid buying them. According to the CA, type approval is required to ensure all ICT devices comply with national and international standards on safety, health and electromagnetic compatibility.

The regulator warned that phones which bypass this process may expose users to excessive radiation, lack basic safety features such as battery protection, or interfere with other electronic equipment. It said recent market surveillance had identified an increase in non-type-approved devices entering the country, posing risks to users and undermining market standards.

The CA noted that the growth of unapproved phones raises concerns about consumer protection, particularly in a market where lower prices can influence purchasing decisions. It added that its intervention is intended to limit the circulation of devices that have not been subjected to proper testing.

The directive builds on earlier regulatory measures introduced to improve compliance in the mobile sector. In October 2025, the Authority required local phone assemblers to upload device IMEI numbers to a Kenya Revenue Authority portal, while importers were instructed to declare IMEI details in their import documentation.

Those measures were aimed at improving traceability, reducing tax evasion and preventing counterfeit or unregistered devices from entering the market. By naming specific brands, the CA signalled a more direct approach to enforcement.

The Authority said the action is part of wider efforts to protect consumers, support fair competition and safeguard the integrity of Kenya’s telecommunications infrastructure. It reiterated that compliance with type-approval requirements is mandatory for all devices sold or used in the country.