The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a comprehensive directive requiring all organisations, institutions, and businesses using vehicle tracking and fleet management systems to engage only licensed service providers. The move is part of a broader regulatory effort to safeguard consumers, enhance public safety, and eliminate the use of substandard or illegal tracking systems in Kenya.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, CA Director General David Mugonyi emphasized that all financial institutions, motor vehicle dealers, and both public and private entities must verify the licensing status of any Application Service Providers (ASPs) they engage for fleet management or asset tracking.
Entities are required to assess all current and planned tracking service engagements to ensure full compliance with licensing conditions,” CA stated.
Mandatory Compliance Measures
Under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, 1998, specifically Sections 24, 67, and 75, it is illegal to operate any communication service or system without a valid licence issued by the Authority. Violations attract fines, prosecution, and imprisonment.
To ensure strict compliance, the Authority has outlined three key directives:
- Engage only licensed Application Service Providers (ASPs) for fleet and asset tracking services.
- Verify the provider’s Annual Compliance Certificate before initiating or continuing any engagement.
- Review and assess all current and planned tracking service agreements to confirm adherence to regulatory requirements.
Unlicensed Operations to Attract Penalties
The CA further clarified that if tracking services are found to be unregistered or are not associated with a licensed provider, the organisation using the service will be considered to be operating it internally. This status automatically triggers a requirement for direct licensing from the CA.
Any tracking services not accounted for will be deemed to be owned or operated internally, requiring direct licensing from the Authority,” the statement warned.
Failure to comply will result in immediate enforcement actions, including legal proceedings, without further notice.
Why the Directive Matters
The CA, as the regulator of Kenya’s ICT sector, is tasked with ensuring secure, innovative, and high-quality services in telecommunications, broadcasting, cyber security, and e-commerce. The crackdown on unauthorized tracking systems aims to:
- Curb the risks associated with unverified or unsafe telematics equipment.
- Promote consumer safety and data privacy.
- Ensure regulatory oversight in a rapidly growing industry critical to logistics and public safety.
We are safeguarding the interests of ICT users and the broader public through robust oversight,” said Mugonyi.
Organisations and individuals can verify licensed providers through the official CA register at:
https://www.ca.go.ke/licensee-register
