The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has opened a public consultation on its proposed Network Equipment specifications. The draft, Technical Specifications for Network Equipment, 2026 (CA.TS.520:2026), aims to guide type approval for equipment that businesses sell and use in Kenya.
Manufacturers, importers and other stakeholders can submit comments until September 30, 2026. However, this deadline applies to consultation feedback, not mandatory compliance. The CA’s official consultation notice explains how stakeholders can participate.
Which Network Equipment Does the Draft Cover?
The draft covers switches, routers, firewalls, gateways, servers, network interface cards and session border controllers capable of connecting to public telecommunications networks.
For businesses supplying these products, the consultation offers an opportunity to review potential technical and documentation requirements. Additionally, stakeholders can identify provisions that require clarification and raise those issues with the authority.
What Requirements Does the CA Propose?
The proposed Network Equipment specifications address connectivity, safety, security and sustainability. Specifically, the draft includes the following requirements:
| Area | Proposed requirements |
|---|---|
| Connectivity and performance | IPv6 and IPv6+ support, interoperability and quality of service |
| Safety and emissions | Electrical safety and electromagnetic emissions requirements |
| Security and accessibility | Cybersecurity and accessibility provisions |
| Energy efficiency | Minimum platinum-level power supply efficiency |
| Materials | Restrictions on hazardous substances |
| Equipment lifecycle | At least three years remaining before imported equipment reaches end of life |
| Product documentation | A Digital Product Passport containing identification, material, sustainability and compliance information |
| Artificial intelligence | Additional safeguards for equipment using AI systems |
Moreover, the proposed Digital Product Passport would bring identification, material, sustainability and compliance information into the product documentation. The draft also introduces additional safeguards for equipment that uses AI systems.
Together, these proposals extend beyond connectivity to address several aspects of product performance and lifecycle management. Stakeholders can review the complete provisions in the draft technical specifications.
Consultation Deadline and Implementation Status
September 30, 2026 is the deadline for comments, not an implementation or mandatory compliance date. The draft lists its effective date as “TBD.” Therefore, businesses should treat these provisions as proposals rather than current obligations.
To participate, manufacturers, importers and other stakeholders can complete the CA’s comments template and email their feedback to specifications@ca.go.ke before the deadline.
In addition, businesses can compare the proposals with their equipment portfolios, supporting documentation and product lifecycles. This review can help stakeholders prepare focused comments and explain any practical concerns.
For support with conformity assessment and market access planning, explore Entirety’s Product Certification Service.
Impact Assessment
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Technical Standards?
Yes -
Type Approval & Market Access?
Yes -
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance?
Yes -
Spectrum Management?
No
