Satellite licensing in Kenya could undergo changes as the Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) seeks public feedback on a proposed regulatory framework for satellite frequency use. The regulator has published the draft Satellite Frequency Licensing Framework, 2026, inviting satellite operators, internet service providers, broadcasters and other stakeholders to submit comments before the document is finalized.
The consultation comes as satellite connectivity becomes increasingly important for broadband access, business communications and services in areas where traditional networks remain limited. The expansion of low Earth orbit satellite constellations has also increased the number of systems sharing valuable radio frequencies. Regulators must therefore balance the introduction of new services with the need to protect existing networks from harmful interference.
The proposed framework explains the authorizations and telecommunications licences that different satellite services may need to operate legally in Kenya. It covers geostationary and non-geostationary satellite systems, earth stations, user terminals, mobile satellite services and specialized applications such as aviation, maritime communications and Earth observation. It also outlines requirements for equipment approval, network records and compliance monitoring.
The CA says the framework is intended to support efficient spectrum use, lawful market entry and the orderly deployment of satellite services. Stakeholder feedback will help identify whether the proposed rules are clear, proportionate and suitable for current and emerging technologies. The consultation is particularly relevant to operators assessing the licensing differences between traditional geostationary systems and newer non-geostationary networks.
According to the consultation notice supplied, written comments must reach the Authority by November 6, 2026. Interested parties are expected to use the official submission template, identify the relevant questions and sections, and provide evidence and practical alternatives where they recommend changes.
What Kenya’s Satellite Licensing Framework Covers
The draft Satellite Frequency Licensing Framework, 2026, sets out how companies should obtain frequency authorizations for satellite-based communications and related services in Kenya.
It addresses two broad categories of satellite systems. Geostationary orbit (GSO) satellites operate in an orbit that allows them to appear stationary relative to a point on Earth. Non-geostationary orbit (NGSO) systems operate in other orbital configurations, including low Earth orbit constellations used for satellite broadband.
The growing use of NGSO systems has increased the complexity of managing spectrum. Multiple satellite networks may operate in frequency bands that are also used by geostationary satellites or terrestrial communications services.
Without effective coordination, these systems can interfere with one another, potentially affecting network reliability and service quality. The proposed framework therefore includes provisions relating to frequency coordination, earth stations and the CA’s monitoring responsibilities.
The Authority also aims to ensure that satellite operators enter the Kenyan market under an appropriate licensing structure and comply with the conditions attached to their authorizations.
Read the official consultation document: Satellite Frequency Licensing Framework, 2026 (PDF)
Which Licences Would Satellite Operators Need?
Under the draft, a Landing Rights Authorization is a key requirement for many satellite services. Additional licences depend on the type of satellite network, ground station or customer equipment involved.
The proposed requirements vary across several categories.
Gateway Earth Stations
Gateway earth stations would require an International Gateway Systems and Services (IGSS) licence. The associated frequency authorization would remain valid for the duration of the relevant licence.
Gateways connect satellite networks with terrestrial telecommunications infrastructure and can serve as important points for routing communications traffic.
Fixed Satellite User Terminals
Fixed satellite user terminals would need the relevant licences under Kenya’s telecommunications market structure. Depending on the business model, these may include landing rights, IGSS, Network Facility Provider, Application Service Provider and Communications Equipment Distributor licences.
The draft links the frequency authorization to the validity of the Application Service Provider licence.
It also places responsibility on satellite operators supplying their own terminals to ensure the devices comply with applicable requirements and do not cause harmful interference.
Very Small Aperture Terminals
Very Small Aperture Terminals, commonly known as VSATs, would require a VSAT licence under the proposed framework. The satellite operator must also hold valid landing rights.
The associated frequency authorization would remain valid for the duration of the VSAT licence.
VSAT technology is used for satellite connectivity in locations that may be difficult to serve through conventional terrestrial networks. Such connections can support businesses, remote facilities and other users requiring reliable communications links.
Earth Stations in Motion
Earth stations in motion (ESIMs) allow satellite connectivity while a platform is moving. Applications include communications on land, aircraft and ships.
For land-based ESIMs, the draft requires an Application Service Provider licence alongside other applicable licences or partnerships with licensed operators. Only type-approved terminals would be permitted for distribution and use.
Aeronautical and maritime ESIMs operating on foreign-registered aircraft and vessels would require authorization from the CA and landing rights for the satellite system.
These provisions could affect providers offering connectivity to transport operators, passengers and businesses operating across borders.
Mobile Satellite Services
Mobile satellite service providers would need an Application Service Provider licence and any other applicable licences or partnerships required under the market structure.
These services can support communications beyond the reach of conventional mobile networks, depending on the satellite system and equipment deployed.
Broadcasting and Specialized Ground Stations
Satellite broadcasting feeder links would require landing rights, with frequency authorization tied to the validity of those rights.
Other ground stations used for positioning and navigation, Earth observation, space research, and telemetry, tracking and command would require CA authorization and landing rights.
These categories cover specialized applications beyond consumer satellite broadband, making the proposed framework relevant to scientific, technical and broadcasting organizations.
Equipment Approval and Compliance Requirements
The proposed framework also addresses the equipment used to provide satellite services.
Electronic equipment deployed in satellite networks would need type approval from the CA. This includes equipment used in core and access networks as well as devices supplied to end users.
Type approval helps establish that equipment meets applicable technical and regulatory requirements before it is distributed or used. For satellite systems, compliance is particularly important because poorly configured or non-compliant equipment may create interference with other services.
The draft also requires licensed satellite service providers to maintain records of terminals operating on their networks. These records would include terminal locations and their areas of operation within Kenya.
Providers would also need to submit periodic returns as required by the Authority.
These obligations could require operators to maintain accurate equipment inventories, update terminal information and develop processes for responding to regulatory requests. Equipment distributors and importers may also need to review their product approval and documentation procedures.
The Ten Questions the CA Wants Stakeholders to Address
The consultation asks stakeholders to comment on ten areas of the draft framework.
- Purpose and scope: Are the framework’s objectives and coverage sufficiently clear to address current and emerging satellite services?
- Licensing and authorization: Is the relationship between telecommunications licences and frequency authorization clear?
- Legal and policy considerations: What additional legal, regulatory or policy issues should be considered?
- Market structure: Are the proposed licensing requirements appropriate under the Telecommunications Market Structure?
- GSO and NGSO differences: Where should the framework distinguish between geostationary and non-geostationary satellite systems?
- Authorization requirements: Are the requirements clear and proportionate for both system types, and what additional information should applicants provide?
- Other frequency requirements: What further comments should be considered on frequency authorization?
- Type approval: Are the proposed equipment approval requirements appropriate?
- Reporting: Are the proposed recordkeeping and reporting obligations suitable?
- Overall implementation: What other comments should inform the final framework and its implementation?
Questions five and six are particularly relevant to satellite broadband providers and other operators using different orbital configurations. Stakeholders may wish to explain whether identical requirements would work for all systems or whether technical differences justify specific treatment.
However, any proposed changes should be supported by technical evidence, operational experience or clear explanations of the likely effects.
How to Submit Comments Before November 6
The CA has provided a template for stakeholder submissions. Respondents should use it to organize their feedback and make it easier for the regulator to assess individual recommendations.
The submission instructions include the following steps:
- Download and complete the official stakeholder comments template.
- Identify the consultation question and relevant section of the draft for every comment.
- Explain the reasons for supporting or opposing a proposed requirement.
- Provide supporting evidence and a practical alternative wherever possible.
- Identify yourself or the organization you represent.
- Clearly mark any information considered confidential.
- Submit the completed response by email before the stated deadline.
Submission email: [email protected]
Deadline: November 6, 2026.
Official comments template: Download the CA stakeholder submission template (PDF)
Stakeholders can also consult the Communications Authority’s open consultations page for the relevant consultation materials.
Who Should Participate in the Consultation?
The proposed framework could affect a broad range of organizations involved in satellite communications.
Satellite network operators should review the authorization requirements, spectrum coordination provisions and equipment obligations. Internet service providers should assess how the rules may affect satellite broadband offerings, partnerships and network deployments.
Broadcasters and organizations operating specialized ground stations may also need to examine the provisions applicable to their services. Equipment importers and distributors should consider the type-approval requirements and their responsibilities for supplying compliant devices.
Businesses relying on satellite connectivity for remote operations, maritime services, aviation or network backhaul may also have an interest in the consultation. The proposed requirements could influence how services are supplied, which licences are needed and how equipment is managed.
For smaller operators, the practical cost and complexity of obtaining multiple licences may be important issues to raise. Larger providers may focus on technical coordination, reporting systems and the treatment of different satellite architectures.
The most useful submissions will explain how particular provisions affect real operations and propose changes that the Authority can evaluate.
What Happens After the Consultation?
The CA says the draft framework may be reviewed periodically after implementation. However, the current consultation gives stakeholders an opportunity to identify problems and recommend changes before the rules are finalized.
The Authority will need to consider the feedback alongside its regulatory objectives, including spectrum efficiency, interference management, market access and compliance.
The final framework could influence how satellite operators plan network deployments, obtain frequency authorizations and manage equipment used in Kenya. The precise impact will depend on the final provisions and how they are implemented.
For now, the key step for affected organizations is to review the draft, assess the proposed obligations and submit evidence-based comments by November 6, 2026.
The consultation represents an opportunity for Kenya’s satellite communications industry to contribute practical technical and commercial perspectives before the regulatory framework takes effect.
