(Ecofin Agency) - As part of its fight against counterfeit mobile phones and devices, Communications Authority of Kenya (CAK) has adopted new control measures. Indeed, import and distribution of mobile phones is now only allowed to approved companies. However, aware that these companies can also distribute counterfeit mobile devices, the telecoms regulator has taken other preventive measures.

Therefore, CAK has banned the importation of phones without instructions for use and those with a battery life of less than eight hours. Imported phones must have manufacturer's mark or any other indelible identification mark. 

Every imported telephone must have an International Mobile Equipment Identification Code (IMEI). Moreover, a sample of every imported telephone must be provided for technical testing following which only approved devices can be put on domestic market. It has also been required that mobile device distributors grant one year warranty and two years of after-sales service to consumers.

According to CAK, this decision is justified by the danger fake phones present to the national economy, but especially to populations.

Let’s recall that CAK also gives priority to consumers’ protection with regard to the risks of explosion and leakage of harmful materials related to fake mobile devices.