Kenya Sets New Conditions Before Inactive Numbers Are Recycled

Mobile phone users in Kenya will have more time to protect inactive numbers before they can be permanently deactivated and reassigned. The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has introduced safeguards requiring operators to make several attempts to reach subscribers before recycling their numbers.

Under the new framework, mobile operators must begin contacting customers whose numbers have remained continuously inactive for more than three months. All available contact details provided during SIM registration are expected to be used during the notification process.

The contact process will continue for three months before an inactive number becomes eligible for deactivation and eventual recycling. Operators must also issue a public notice for numbers that have remained unused for more than six months.

The notice will include a USSD facility allowing members of the public to check whether their numbers are among those facing deactivation. This is expected to give subscribers another opportunity to act before their numbers are reassigned.

Some Numbers Can Be Protected

Subscribers who expect to remain unable to use their numbers for extended periods can also seek protection from recycling. The safeguards cover circumstances including prolonged illness, imprisonment, travel and other forms of incapacity.

A subscriber or legally authorised representative can request that a number be whitelisted where evidence shows that it will remain unused for more than six months. Special provisions have also been provided for prisoners serving lengthy periods.

For incarcerated subscribers, the Commissioner of Prisons can notify mobile operators and request protection of qualifying numbers.

Why the Rules Were Introduced

The new framework follows a March 2026 High Court ruling that called for safeguards against arbitrary deactivation and reassignment of mobile numbers. The issue has become increasingly important because phone numbers are now connected to mobile money, banking, online accounts and other digital services.

The CA said accurate subscriber information remains important because some customers and registration agents fail to provide alternative contacts. Missing details can make it harder for operators to reach people before their numbers become eligible for recycling.

The Authority's new procedures are therefore intended to make the deactivation process more transparent while reducing the risk of subscribers unexpectedly losing numbers linked to important financial and digital services.