The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has directed that all Digital Video Broadcasting-Second Generation Terrestrial (DVB-T2) receivers, including digital televisions and decoders, must undergo mandatory Type Approval before being imported, sold, or used in the country.
In a notice issued on Tuesday, September 2, the regulator emphasized that the move is intended to safeguard technical integrity, protect consumers, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Type Approval is a certification process through which CA confirms that a product meets the necessary technical specifications and international recommendations.
DVB-T2 is an advanced broadcasting standard that allows broadcasters to transmit signals with improved efficiency and deliver higher-quality content. Kenya adopted the DVB-T2 standard in 2015 during its transition from analogue to digital broadcasting, a move that significantly enhanced spectrum use and expanded access to diverse broadcasting services.
The Authority clarified that DVB-T2 receivers subject to approval include Integrated Receiver Decoders (IRDs), television sets with integrated digital tuners, and Conditional Access Modules (CAMs).
“Entities intending to import, distribute, or sell DVB-T2 receiving equipment that have not yet been type approved must submit a Type Approval application to the Authority,” CA stated. The application must be accompanied by the required documentation as outlined in the official form to confirm compliance with the new technical specifications.
Type Approval is only required once for each model of equipment, simplifying the process for manufacturers and distributors. Beyond digital TVs and decoders, the Authority also regulates the approval of devices such as cellular phones, radio communication equipment, and data devices.
Consumers and businesses seeking further details on the requirements have been advised to visit the CA website (ca.go.ke) and navigate to the market structure tab for guidance.
Non-compliance with the directive could result in hefty penalties. Under Section 46C of the Kenya Information and Communications Act of 1998, offenders risk a fine of up to Ksh1 million.
The Authority’s directive marks another step toward strengthening Kenya’s broadcasting ecosystem, ensuring that consumers receive quality digital content while maintaining order in the rapidly evolving communications sector.
