CA Gives Kenyans 30 Days to Challenge Applications for New TV, Radio Licences

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has opened a 30-day window for members of the public to challenge applications by several broadcasters and telecommunications companies seeking licences to operate in the country.

In a public notice published in the Kenya Gazette on Friday, November 6, the regulator invited individuals, organisations and other interested parties to submit objections or representations regarding the applications.

The notice, issued under the Kenya Information and Communications Act, Cap 411A, lists five television broadcasters and one radio operator seeking various licences, including new approvals and renewals.

Among the applicants is Kenyatta University, which is seeking to renew the broadcasting licence for its television station, Kenyatta University Television.

The other television applicants are seeking approval to provide different broadcasting services, with the applications largely involving free-to-air commercial television operations. One applicant is seeking renewal of a subscription broadcasting licence.

Beyond broadcasting, the notice also identifies several internet service providers seeking authorisation to offer communication services. Eight companies have additionally applied for licences to establish telecommunications infrastructure.

The regulator explained that granting the requested licences would allow the applicants to provide the services specified in their applications.

CA warned that the proposed approvals could have implications for members of the public, businesses, county governments, local authorities and other institutions operating within the affected areas.

Consequently, anyone wishing to challenge the applications has been directed to submit a written representation to the Director General of the Communications Authority within 30 days from the date of the notice.

The latest development comes weeks after the regulator revoked licences held by more than 22 television stations, most of them free-to-air broadcasters.

Several of the affected stations were operated by religious organisations, raising concerns among some broadcasters over the regulatory action.

The new notice provides another opportunity for the regulator to receive public feedback before making decisions on the latest applications.

https://www.kenyans.co.ke/news/129226-ca-issues-notice-kenyans-several-companies-seek-tv-radio-licences

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