Namibia has rejected an application by Elon Musk-owned Starlink for a license to provide satellite internet services, marking a significant regulatory setback for the company in southern Africa.
The decision was announced by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), which noted that Starlink’s Namibian subsidiary did not meet the country’s local ownership requirements. Starlink has not yet issued a public response to the ruling.
A CRAN spokesperson said, “Starlink’s application does not comply with Namibian law, which requires that at least 51% of shares in any telecommunications company be owned by citizens or local entities. This decision is in line with our mandate to ensure fair participation by Namibians in the telecom sector.” The regulator added that it could reconsider the decision either on its own initiative or if a petition is filed by an aggrieved party within 90 days.
In 2024, CRAN had already accused Starlink of operating without a license and instructed the company to immediately cease operations. The spokesperson also warned the public: “Residents are advised not to purchase Starlink equipment or subscribe to its services, as doing so would be illegal under Namibian law.”
Starlink operates in roughly 25 African countries but has faced regulatory challenges in others, including South Africa, where local ownership rules have also blocked its entry. On its website, Starlink says it has created a local partnership in Namibia to collaborate with Namibian firms and create employment opportunities.
Elon Musk, born in South Africa, has publicly criticized local ownership laws in the region. Last year, he tweeted, “Starlink is not allowed to operate in South Africa simply because I’m not black.” In response, South African government officials emphasized that foreign companies that comply with local regulations, such as Microsoft, are able to operate successfully.
Starlink provides high-speed internet via satellite, targeting remote and underserved areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited. A Namibian tech analyst, Kamati Shikongo, commented, “While Starlink could have brought faster internet to rural areas, Namibia must enforce its ownership laws to ensure local participation and economic benefits.”