CA Proposes New Licensing Framework for GSM-Based Alarm Response Systems

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has proposed alterations to the licensing of alarm response systems that utilize mobile networks for transmitting emergency alerts. In a notice disseminated on September 15, 2026, the Authority highlighted how technological advancements have led to a surge in the use of GSM-based alarm response services by various entities.

These systems employ SIM-enabled devices and licensed public mobile networks to disseminate alarm signals. The Authority has commenced the development of a regulatory framework to delineate the scope of GSM-based alarm response systems and to determine the pertinent licensing prerequisites and processes. The proposed framework aims to safeguard consumers, uphold equipment compliance, and enhance the dependability of alarm response services.

The Authority has crafted a consultation paper detailing an outline of the review process concerning the Alarms Response Systems Licensing Framework, along with guidance on matters the public and stakeholders can contribute their perspectives on. The consultation paper is accessible via the Authority's open consultations portal at https://www.ca.go.ke/open-consultations.

The CA is soliciting feedback from members of the public and stakeholders pertaining to the proposed framework for licensing non-spectrum-based alarm response systems. The Authority emphasized that the consultation aims to gather insights that will inform the development and review of the licensing framework. The public and stakeholders have been granted a 30-day window from the date of the notice publication to submit their views.

Submissions should be directed to freqlicensingfsm@ca.go.ke. The CA has also supplied a template for stakeholders to utilize when formulating their submissions, which is available on the Authority's open consultations portal at https://www.ca.go.ke/open-consultations.