Over the past few months, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) has observed an increase in telecommunications devices being imported into the country without the required Type Approval certification. On this basis, Cran urges all consumers, vendors, importers, resellers and industry participants to ensure all telecommunications equipment imported, sold, or used in Namibia is certified adequately through the Type Approval process before entering the market.

Type Approval is a critical step that confirms devices such as mobile phones, routers and modems meet Namibia’s technical, safety, and performance standards. This process helps to protect consumers, maintain reliable communication networks, and prevent the circulation of counterfeit or substandard products.“Before any telecommunications device reaches the Namibian market, it must undergo assessment to confirm that it is safe, reliable and compatible with our networks,” said Mufaro Nesongano, Cran’s executive for communication and consumer relations. “Type Approval is not only a regulatory process but an important safeguard that ensures consumers receive quality products and uninterrupted connectivity.”

Since the introduction of the Type Approval Regulations in 2016, Cran has processed thousands of applications to prevent unsafe or incompatible devices from entering the country. Between January and September 2025, the Authority received 902 Type Approval applications, while 279 applications were declined due to incomplete documentation or safety concerns. Several intercepted devices, including mobile phones, were found to be counterfeit or not in line with national standards.

To strengthen monitoring and enforcement, Cran entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Namibia Revenue Agency (NamRA) in February 2023. This collaboration supports effective border control by identifying and preventing non-compliant devices from reaching the Namibian market. It also enhances capacity building and streamlines import procedures to ensure that only certified equipment is distributed locally.Cran has urged all stakeholders to verify the Type Approval status of any telecommunications device before purchasing or importing it.

“Obtaining Type Approval is a shared responsibility,” added Nesongano. 

“It promotes consumer safety, encourages fair business practices and supports a secure, interference-free communications environment in Namibia.”