The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has begun a crackdown on Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) offering Courier Services across the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, April 23, the authority noted that some of the vehicles were operating the services without authorization from the government as required by the law.
Additionally, the statement explained that the e-commerce players required an operations license from the Authority or otherwise risk a jail term.
“As part of its mandate, the Authority plays a pivotal role in facilitating domestic and cross-border e-commerce activities by licensing both national and international courier providers for transportation and delivery of packages.
“It has come to the attention of the Authority that a number of unauthorized Public Service Vehicle (PSV) Saccos and e-commerce players are offering courier services without obtaining the requisite license from the Authority,” read the statement in part.
Public Service Vehicles operators found offering courier services without licenses are liable to a fine of Ksh300,000 or a one-year prison term.
Also, CA in the statement warned Kenyans against using unlicensed operators to ensure the safety of the items they are transporting to different areas.
According to the authority, users ought to demand for a valid compliance certificate before using any courier service.
“Members of the public are therefore advised to engage the services of licensed postal and courier operators to ensure the safety of their items and mitigate other risks associated with engaging unauthorized service providers.
“The public is further encouraged to verify the validity of courier service providers by demanding to view a valid compliance certificate issued by Authority,” added the statement.
Further, it noted that a register of licensed courier providers is provided for reference for users across the country through the Authority’s website at: https://www.ca.go.ke/ licensee-register.
“Individuals found operating courier services without a valid license are reminded of the severe penalties and potential imprisonment upon conviction. To operate lawfully, it is important to obtain the appropriate license from the Authority and maintain compliance with regulatory requirements at all times,” CA explained.