Communications Authority cracks down on unlicensed tracking services
The directive is aimed at protecting consumers, discouraging substandard equipment, and ensuring proper oversight of tracking systems used across the country.
All organisations and businesses involved in vehicle tracking and fleet management have been directed to use only licensed service providers, in a move by the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) to strengthen safety and eliminate the use of illegal systems.
In a notice issued by Director General David Mugonyi on Tuesday, the Authority warned that financial institutions, motor vehicle dealers, and both public and private entities must verify that any fleet tracking or asset management services they engage are from licensed Application Service Providers (ASPs).
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The directive is aimed at protecting consumers, discouraging substandard equipment, and ensuring proper oversight of tracking systems used across the country.
“Entities are required to assess all current and planned tracking service engagements to ensure full compliance with licensing conditions,” the statement read.
The CA, which regulates the ICT sector under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, is responsible for issuing licences, monitoring compliance, and ensuring secure and high-quality services in telecommunications, cybersecurity, broadcasting, e-commerce, and postal services.
The Authority also issues an Annual Compliance Certificate to qualified service providers, which organisations are now required to verify before engaging any provider.
Sections 24, 67, and 75 of the law prohibit any communication service or system from operating without proper licensing. Violating these provisions is an offence that may lead to fines or imprisonment.
The Authority noted that if any tracking services are found to be unregistered or not linked to a licensed provider, the client will be considered to be running those services internally. In such cases, the affected organisations will be required to obtain a direct licence from the Authority immediately.
“Any tracking services not accounted for will be deemed to be owned or operated internally, requiring direct licensing from the Authority,” CA stated, adding that non-compliance will attract enforcement measures without further notice.
Businesses and institutions have been urged to act promptly to avoid legal penalties and to use the CA’s official register at www.ca.go.ke/licensee-register for verification of authorised ICT service providers.
Additional support can also be sought directly from the Communications Authority of Kenya.
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