The Communications Authority of Kenya (CA) has directed mobile network operators to send government-approved emergency SMS alerts to all active subscribers as Kenya prepares for the October-December rainy season.
The directive means that Kenyans will receive emergency and disaster preparedness messages even if they have previously opted out of promotional messages or activated Do-Not-Disturb (DND) settings.
The CA said the move will support a National Early Warning System (NEWS) simulation exercise scheduled for Friday, October 2, as the country prepares for the expected rains.
Under the directive, telecom operators are required to deliver approved emergency and public safety messages issued by the government through designated platforms, including Short Code 1590.
The authority said the messages will reach all active subscribers regardless of their promotional messaging preferences or previous opt-out requests.
Telcos have also been directed not to apply opt-out mechanisms to emergency alerts and disaster preparedness messages sent under the system.
“The Authority considers the dissemination of Early Warning System messages, disaster preparedness advisories, simulation notifications, emergency instructions, and El Niño-related public safety alerts to fall squarely within the scope of the above licence obligations,” CA Director General David Mugonyi said in a directive dated Thursday, October 1.
The operators have further been instructed to give priority to emergency communications and ensure the alerts are delivered promptly across their networks.
The CA said the directive is in line with constitutional provisions requiring the government to publish and publicise important information affecting the country.
It also noted that Kenyans need access to information that can help protect their safety and welfare during emergencies.
The directive comes as Kenya prepares for the October-December rainfall season, with authorities warning of above-average rainfall in several parts of the country.
The heavy rains could lead to flooding and other weather-related risks in some areas.
The Kenya Meteorological Services Authority (KMSA) said on Thursday that the rains would begin at different times across the country.
Nairobi, Kiambu, Meru, Embu, Machakos, Kitui, Makueni, Kajiado and other central and eastern counties are expected to start receiving the rains from the second to third week of October.
