Kenya Bans Import and Sale of Phones Without USB-C Ports

The Communications Authority of Kenya has announced a major change that will affect phone users and sellers across the country.

Starting March 24, 2026, all mobile phones and tablets being imported or sold in Kenya must have a USB Type-C charging port.

Old Charging Phones Now Blocked

This new rule means that phones using older charging systems like Micro-USB or special company chargers will no longer be allowed into Kenya.

The directive affects:

• Smartphones
• Tablets
• Basic feature phones (commonly known as kabambe)

Many of these cheaper phones rely on outdated charging ports, meaning they will now disappear from the market.

Immediate Effect, No Grace Period

Unlike other regions, such as the European Union, which gave companies time to adjust, Kenya has enforced the rule immediately.

This means:

• Importers cannot bring in non-compliant devices
• Retailers cannot sell them
• Anyone breaking the law risks fines or legal action

New Rules for All Devices

Apart from USB-C charging, the government has introduced more requirements for mobile devices:

• At least 8 hours of talk time
• At least 24 hours of standby time
• Use of Kenya’s Type G (3-pin) plug
• Chargers must have detachable cables
• Must support 240V power supply (50Hz)
• Must meet safety and environmental standards

Big Impact on “Kabambe” Phones

This move will greatly affect low-cost phones that many Kenyans rely on.

Most kabambe devices use older charging systems, meaning:

• They may become hard to find
• Prices of compliant phones may increase slightly
• Some traders could face losses from old stock

Even some older smartphones released before 2023 could also be affected.

Kenya Joins Global Trend

Kenya is now joining other parts of the world in adopting USB-C as the standard charging system.

USB-C is preferred because:

• It charges faster
• Transfers data quickly
• Reduces the need for multiple chargers

Countries and regions like the European Union have already adopted similar rules to reduce electronic waste.

Why the Government Made This Move

According to the Communications Authority of Kenya, the new rule aims to:

• Reduce electronic waste
• Help Kenyans save money by using one charger for many devices
• Improve the safety and quality of phones
• Standardize charging technology

The authority also hinted that similar rules could soon apply to other electronics like laptops.

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