Has Govt Ordered Telcos To Collect DNA From Kenyans In SIM Card Registration? CA Clarifies
CA clarified that SIM card registration rules are designed solely to protect Kenyans from SIM-related fraud and are not meant to infringe on citizens’ rights.
Marvin Chege 
The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has rejected claims suggesting it authorized telecom operators to collect Kenyans’ biometric data during SIM card registration.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, November 18, CA described the allegations as baseless and alarming, emphasizing that it has not granted any such permissions.
"CA has noted the concerns and media commentary regarding the collection of biometric data during registration. For the avoidance of doubt, CA has not issued any directives for the collection of biometric data," the Authority stated.
Communication Authority of Kenya (CA) headquarters in Nairobi. /FILE
CA clarified that SIM card registration rules are designed solely to protect Kenyans from SIM-related fraud and are not meant to infringe on citizens’ rights.
The Authority said the regulations aim to enhance the integrity of telecom services, ensuring each registered line is linked to a specific individual.
The rules were also intended to secure access to digital services such as mobile money, e-government, and e-commerce.
Addressing the topic of biometric data, CA explained that it refers to personal information derived from technical processing of physical, physiological, or behavioural traits, including blood typing, DNA analysis, fingerprints, earlobe geometry, retinal scans, and voice recognition.
"This definition does not mean that all this information will be collected from subscribers during SIM card registration. As a matter of fact, the Authority has not directed our licensees to collect this data," CA clarified.
The Authority further emphasized that the new SIM Card Regulations place strict security and confidentiality obligations on telecom operators.
Suspension of SIM Cards
CA also dismissed claims that operators could suspend SIM cards arbitrarily. The regulations only allow suspension when subscribers provide false information or repeatedly fail to meet registration requirements.
The rules make clear that no subscriber can be disconnected without prior notice, and operators must follow fair, transparent procedures in all consumer dealings.
