The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has issued a statement directing all telcos in the country to take extra steps to ensure all subscribers in their networks update their SIM card registration details in line with the new law.

The authority’s Director-General Ezra Chiloba issued the statement on Monday noting all Mobile operators were expected to ensure 100 per cent compliance by Saturday midnight.

“All the Mobile Operators were by the midnight of 15th October 2022 expected to ensure that all subscribers had updated their SIM card registration details in line with the law,” the statement read.

“Taking into account the improved level of performance so far, Operators are directed to take additional steps to ensure 100 percent compliance in the next 60 days.”

Chiloba further clarified that the 60 days period was not an extension rather a time the telcos were allocated to take additional measures to ensure 100 per cent compliance.

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The authority listed a few of the measures Kenyans who are yet to comply with the directive should expect, including denial of voice, SMS, data and mobile banking services before their lines are finally deregistered.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the 60 days is not an extension, but a period for the mobile operators to take certain actions including denial of service to prompt further compliance,” the authority said.

“These steps include graduated denial of service to SIM card holders not duly registered and eventual deactivation. The services to be affected by this action include voice, SMS, data, and mobile banking services.”

CA also said it will undertake a compliance audit to find out the level of compliance and any Mobile Operator found non-compliant shall be liable to regulatory measures including a penalty of up to 0.5 percent of their Annual Gross Turnover.