Wireless Certification in Africa

There are 54 countries in Africa, and almost every country has its own type approval system for telecommunications products. Although the type approval systems of various countries are independent, the operation methods are largely similar. In most cases, the certification is done through CE-RED transfer, but some countries still require sample submission for verification.

For example, in the past, it was mandatory to provide samples when applying for ARTCI certification in Côte d'Ivoire. However, recently, the Ivorian telecommunications authority relaxed this requirement, announcing that samples are no longer required for ARTCI certification.

On the other hand, in March of this year, the Congo-Brazzaville Post and Electronic Communications Regulatory Authority stated that, in strict accordance with Regulation No. 2015-254 issued in February 2015, all certification applications must be accompanied by one sample for appearance and function inspection. This requirement applies to both new and ongoing applications; failure to provide samples will result in the cancellation of the application.

So, which African countries require samples for telecommunications product type approval? Below is detailed information:

Algeria: ARPCE, 1 unit 

Benin: ARCEP, 1 unit 

Chad: ARCEP, 1 unit 

Congo (Brazzaville): ARPCE, 1 unit 

Congo (DRC): ARPTC, 1 unit 

Ghana: NCA, 1 unit (Only for certain product categories) 

Guinea: ARPTC, 1 unit 

Kenya: CAK, 1 unit (Only for certain product categories) 

Mali: AMRTP, 1 unit 

Niger: ARCEP, 1 unit 

Nigeria: NCC, 1 unit (Only for certain product categories; exemption possible if the sample is too large) 

Tanzania: TCRA, Samples required only for products with cellular network capabilities 

Togo: ARCEP, 1 unit 

Rwanda: RURA, 1 unit 

Burundi: ARCT, 1 unit 

Tunisia: CERT, 1 unit 

The specific sample requirements should be confirmed on a case-by-case basis. Manufacturers seeking certification in these countries are advised to prepare samples in advance before submitting their applications.