The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has released a draft Satellite Frequency Licensing Framework, 2026, and opened a public consultation that runs until November 6, 2026.
The framework sets out the licences and frequency authorisations required for companies to operate satellite services in Kenya, covering both geostationary (GSO) and non-geostationary (NGSO) systems, including low-Earth-orbit constellations.
It also defines the licensing regime for earth stations, compliance monitoring, satellite filings and coordination, with the stated aim of efficient spectrum use, lawful market entry, protection of existing users and an orderly rollout of new services.
Because NGSO systems share bands with GSO and terrestrial services, the draft calls for frequency-monitoring systems to help resolve potential interference.
Under the draft, a Landing Rights Authorization is required before most other authorisations, after which the licences depend on the type of station.
Gateway earth stations must obtain an International Gateway Systems and Services (IGSS) licence that remains in force for the life of the licence.
Fixed satellite user terminals need the licences applicable under the market structure, which may include landing rights, an IGSS licence if a gateway is built, a Network Facility Provider licence, an Application Service Provider licence and a Communications Equipment Distributor licence, with the authorisation lasting as long as the Application Service Provider licence.
VSAT operators must hold a VSAT licence and valid landing rights, with the authorisation lasting as long as the VSAT licence.
Land-based earth stations in motion (ESIMs) require an Application Service Provider licence together with the other licences or a partnership with their holders, and only type-approved terminals may be distributed and used.
Aeronautical and maritime ESIMs on foreign-registered aircraft and ships need CA authorisation and landing rights for the satellite system.
Mobile satellite services also require an Application Service Provider licence plus the supporting licences or partnerships.
Broadcasting satellite feeder links need landing rights, with the authorisation lasting as long as those rights.
Other ground stations for positioning, navigation, Earth observation, space research and telemetry, tracking and command must obtain CA authorisation and landing rights, and every authorisation carries an annual frequency utilisation fee.
All electronic equipment used in a satellite service must receive type approval from the CA, covering core and access networks as well as end-user devices.
Licensed satellite services are required to keep a record of every terminal on their network, including locations and areas of operation, and to file periodic returns as directed by the CA.
The consultation paper contains ten questions, ranging from the clarity of purpose and scope to type-approval and reporting requirements, with questions on the treatment of GSO versus NGSO systems and on the proportionality of authorisation requirements highlighted as particularly important for prospective operators.
Respondents are instructed to use the provided template, give reasons, supporting evidence and practical alternatives, state their identity or organisation, cite the relevant question number, mark confidential information and send their response to [email protected] on or before November 6, 2026.
The CA invites satellite operators, internet service providers, broadcasters, equipment importers and distributors, and any parties that rely on satellite links for backhaul, maritime or aviation connectivity, or remote-area service to comment.
The draft notes that distributors will need a specific licence and must sell only type-approved equipment, while VSAT users must verify that the satellite operator holds landing rights.
The authority also states that the framework may be reviewed periodically, but changes after finalisation will be more difficult to obtain than those made during the consultation.
The move follows the rapid growth of satellite broadband in Kenya, driven by low-Earth-orbit operators such as Starlink, which began offering services in 2023 and expanded internet access in remote areas.
Telcos have argued for a level playing field, contending that satellite providers compete for the same customers and should face comparable regulatory obligations.
The CA, which regulates Kenya’s telecommunications, broadcasting, cybersecurity, e-commerce and postal sectors, manages the country’s numbering and frequency spectrum resources and administers the Universal Service Fund, says the dedicated framework is intended to give operators and investors greater certainty on the rules governing satellite spectrum.
The consultation paper is available on the CA’s website.
