Namibia has denied Starlink’s application to operate in the country, marking a relatively rare setback for SpaceX’s satellite internet service as it continues its expansion across Africa.
The decision was announced by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), which confirmed it had rejected Starlink’s request for both a telecommunications service licence and access to radio spectrum. In a formal notice, the regulator stated, “The authority resolved to decline the award of a class comprehensive telecommunications service licence for Starlink Internet Services Namibia (Pty) Limited.”
While detailed reasoning was limited, officials pointed to compliance with national licensing requirements, particularly around local ownership rules. Namibian law generally requires that telecommunications companies be majority-owned by local entities, typically at least 51%.
Starlink’s local subsidiary, however, is wholly foreign-owned, leading to the rejection.
This is not the first time Starlink has encountered resistance in Namibia. In 2024, regulators issued a cease-and-desist order, accusing the company of operating without proper authorization and warning residents that using its equipment or subscribing to its services would be illegal.
CRAN indicated the door is not entirely closed, noting the decision could be revisited within 90 days, either at the regulator’s initiative or through a formal appeal.
Despite now operating in 25 African countries, the company continues to face hurdles in several key markets across the continent, mostly due to local regulatory and ownership requirements.
Cameroon, for example, took similar action in 2024 by banning the import of Starlink hardware, suspending services, and seizing equipment over licensing and security concerns. Meanwhile, South Africa—Musk’s country of birth—has yet to approve Starlink’s entry, largely due to laws requiring at least 30% ownership by historically disadvantaged groups.
Musk has criticized such policies arguing they act as barriers to foreign investment. Governments in the region, however, maintain that these frameworks are essential for addressing historical inequalities and ensuring local participation in key industries.
