The 2019 Civil Aviation (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) Regulations Act has been approved in Kenya, meaning Kenyans can now buy and operate drones without fear of breaking the law, reports Tech Weez.
This development is considered critical for businesses and individuals that use flying devices for a variety of functions such as photography, videography, any sort of digital content creation, as well as geographical mapping or rescue missions.
The regulations have been undergoing assessment for a long while, write Tech Weez, having gone through a series of ups and downs over the years before being the act was passed.
Drone Registration
Those interested in running drones should be aware of the following registrations and licensing:
- The national security of the state
- Terrorism or organized crime activities
- Risk of public safety and diversion of drones to unauthorized end user
- If the application is subject of investigation in a civil or criminal case related to national security
Ownership
Only Kenyan citizens of 18 and above may own a drone. Applicants should also have a company registered in Kenya. National or county governments are also eligible for ownership.
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Ownership of drones is not allowed to be transferred without approval from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA).
Private users are not permitted to own drones flying with military specs, these are reserved for the national government.
Users can also apply for a temporary permit lasting up to 30 days, and can only be renewed once.
Those seeking to import drones must be authorized to do so by the KCAA. The KCAA is also mandated to deregister devices that are to be exported.
Commercial Use
Private citizens or companies intending to use drones for commercial applications must apply for a Remote Aircraft Operators Certificate (ROC) from the KCAA.
The regulations stating that “the issuance of a ROC by the Authority is dependent upon the UAS operator demonstrating an adequate organization, method of control and supervision of flight operations, training program as well as ground handling and maintenance arrangements consistent with the nature and extent of the operations specified and commensurate with the size, structure, and complexity of the organization.”
The drone licenses of operators can be suspended or cancelled in the interest of public safety or national security. Users who violate requirements or conditions may also find their licenses cancelled.
Edited by Luis Monzon
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