A clearing agent for security equipment dealers has to start with something most electronics importers never hear about: under Kenya’s private security law, manufacturing, importing, distributing and advertising monitoring devices are regulated activities, licensed by the Private Security Regulatory Authority. If you import and sell CCTV, alarms, access control or tracking devices, a customs-cleared consignment isn’t enough; you also need to be licensed to deal in it.

A Licensed Trade, Not Just a Product Category

The Private Security Regulation Act names monitoring devices among regulated private security activities, covering CCTV systems, burglar alarms, access control installation, car tracking and similar equipment. Licensing involves an application, premises inspection, personnel and financial-capacity checks, and fees. Our security equipment guide explains the process; a licence held in another country does not count in Kenya.

New Regulations Mean New Procedures

General regulations gazetted in November 2025 introduced more formal procedures and forms, and renewals must be filed at least 30 days before expiry. Dealers who obtained licences under older practices should check their current standing rather than assume it still covers their activities.

Networked Devices Add the Communications Layer

Cameras, recorders and access systems with wireless or network capability can also fall under Communications Authority type approval, and distributors of communications equipment may need the distributor licence described in our telecommunications equipment guide. Confirm which parts of your range are affected before you place stock orders.

Certification, EPR and Counterfeits

Electrical and electronic security products generally need conformity certificates that match the exact models shipped (see our electrical equipment guide) and fall under Extended Producer Responsibility, including batteries in alarms and trackers. Branded electronics are frequent counterfeit targets, so keep distributor agreements and authorisation letters, as covered in our Anti-Counterfeit Authority guide.

Value Density, Theft and Insurance

Security equipment is small, valuable and attractive to thieves. Ship high-value consignments by air to JKIA when speed justifies it, insist on tamper-evident packaging, and check that your local marine cargo insurance covers the risks you actually face.

Documentation Pack for Security Equipment

Itemised invoice with model numbers, quantities and unit values
PSRA licence evidence for your dealing activity
Communications Authority type approval and distributor licence where applicable
Certificates of Conformity matching the exact models
EPR certificate and brand authorisation letters
Certificate of Origin, export declaration document and Advance Cargo Declaration reference

Working With Clearon Logistics for Security Dealers

We help dealers confirm licensing before ordering, check which regulators apply to each product line, reconcile certificates with shipments, and plan secure delivery.

Importing CCTV, alarms or access control for resale? Talk to Clearon Logistics with your product list, and we’ll confirm which licences and certificates each line needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to import CCTV cameras for resale? Under the private security law, importing and distributing monitoring devices is a regulated activity requiring PSRA licensing.

Is a foreign security licence valid in Kenya? No. PSRA requires a separate Kenyan licence regardless of licences held elsewhere.

Do network cameras need Communications Authority approval? Devices with wireless or network capability can fall under type approval and, for distributors, the communications equipment distributor licence. Confirm per product.

How early should I renew my PSRA licence? At least 30 days before expiry, under the November 2025 regulations.