NCA Somalia and Somali Bureau of Standards Warn Against Importing Unauthorized Telecom Equipment

Mogadishu, Somalia – The National Communications Authority (NCA) Somalia notified all communications and technology stakeholders of the regulatory provisions prohibiting importing and investing in telecom equipment without obtaining prior approval from the NCA and Somalia Bureau of Standards (SoBS).

The notice, in line with Article 59 of the Communications Law, emphasizes the importance of complying with these regulations to ensure a fair and competitive market and the protection of consumers and licensees.

This was announced at a joint event held in Mogadishu with the presence of H.E. Hussein Ulusow, the deputy minister of communications and technology. NCA General Manager Mustafa Yasin, and SoBS General Manager, Hawo Hassan signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on developing procedures for addressing type approvals for communications and technology products imported to Somalia.

“All telecom equipment, regardless of its origin, must undergo the necessary approval process jointly conducted by the NCA and SOBS,” said Mustafa Yassin Sheikh, General Manager of the NCA. “This ‘Type Approval’ process guarantees that the equipment meets the required standards and poses no potential medical risks or interference to other licensees.”

The notice also shows that any existing telecom equipment currently in use, which has yet to be certified by the NCA, must be submitted for certification promptly. Failure to comply with this process violates the law and may significantly disrupt the overall telecom infrastructure.

“It is important to understand that any communications equipment invested in by operators without obtaining proper approval from the NCA will be considered illegal,” said The General Manager of NCA, Mr. Yassin. “The NCA will take necessary actions to ensure compliance, which may include imposing penalties, fines, or even revoking licenses, as deemed appropriate.”

The notice concludes by emphasizing that the NCA cannot be held liable for any damages from using illegal or unauthorized equipment, including new technologies, such as 5G technology… It is the operator’s responsibility to adhere to the approved standards and guidelines to safeguard the integrity and stability of the telecommunications network.

The NCA encourages all licensed operators to review their existing inventory of telecom equipment and initiate the necessary steps to ensure compliance with the regulatory requirements.