Govt Clarifies SIM Registration Data Rules; CBK Halts Crypto Firm Licensing - November 2025

The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has refuted allegations that it authorized telecommunication providers to collect biometric data during SIM card registration, labeling the claims as unfounded. The government also stated that it will not require DNA for SIM card registration. In a separate regulatory update, the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) announced that the licensing of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) is on hold. The hold will remain until the National Treasury issues new regulations for the Virtual Assets Service Providers Act, 2025. The CBK clarified that despite the Act being in effect since November 4, no firm is currently authorized to operate as a licensed VASP.