New Law to Regulate Cable Installations by Internet Firms in CA
New Rules for Telecom Infrastructure in Kenya
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) is currently seeking public input on proposed new rules that aim to enhance the installation and maintenance of cable telecommunication infrastructure throughout the country. These regulations are designed to bring greater standardization to the way fiber optic and other telecom cables are installed, serviced, and repaired by licensed operators and contractors.
The regulator has released draft Technical and Procedural Guidelines for Installation and Maintenance of Cable Telecommunication Infrastructure, 2026. This document outlines the necessary procedures and technical standards to ensure consistency and safety across the sector. The CA argues that these guidelines are essential in addressing ongoing challenges within the industry, such as service interruptions, inconsistent installation practices, and safety risks associated with poorly executed infrastructure work.
As demand for faster and more reliable internet continues to grow, the need for a robust and well-regulated telecom infrastructure becomes increasingly important. The CA highlights that Kenya's expanding digital economy has made telecom infrastructure a critical component for businesses, government services, and households alike. Clear technical standards are therefore necessary to guide the deployment and maintenance of this vital network.
"Your internet experience is not only determined by your device or service provider, but also by how the physical cable infrastructure is installed and maintained," the CA stated. "Poor installation and maintenance of telecom infrastructure can result in outages, slow connectivity, and avoidable safety risks to the public."
To ensure that the final guidelines reflect the needs and concerns of all stakeholders, the CA has invited participation from various sectors within the ICT industry. This includes internet service providers, infrastructure contractors, and members of the public. All feedback must be submitted before May 20, 2026.
The CA emphasized that the input received will be used to refine the guidelines before their final adoption. This process is part of the authority’s ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight and improve service delivery in the ICT sector across the nation.
Key Objectives of the Draft Guidelines
- Standardization: Establish uniform procedures for the installation, servicing, and repair of telecom infrastructure.
- Safety: Minimize risks associated with poor infrastructure work, ensuring public safety.
- Reliability: Improve the quality of internet services through consistent and high-quality installation practices.
- Accountability: Ensure that licensed operators and contractors adhere to clear technical standards.
Stakeholder Involvement
The CA encourages all relevant parties to participate in the review process. This includes:
- Internet service providers who rely on stable and secure infrastructure to deliver their services
- Infrastructure contractors responsible for the physical installation and maintenance of telecom systems
- Members of the public who are affected by the quality and reliability of internet services
By involving a broad range of stakeholders, the CA aims to create a set of guidelines that are both practical and effective in addressing the current challenges in the sector.
Next Steps
Once the feedback period concludes, the CA will analyze the responses and make any necessary revisions to the draft guidelines. The finalized version is expected to be adopted as part of the regulatory framework for the ICT sector in Kenya.