Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia has rejected an application by Elon Musk-owned Starlink for a licence to provide satellite internet services in the country, marking a second regulatory setback for the company in southern Africa.
The authority did not provide specific reasons for the refusal but cited Starlink’s lack of local ownership as a key issue. Namibian law requires at least 51% of shares in any telecommunications company to be owned by citizens or local entities.
Starlink, which operates in approximately 25 African countries, has previously faced regulatory challenges in South Africa over similar ownership requirements. Musk, born in South Africa, has publicly criticised the country’s black economic empowerment policies, claiming they prevented Starlink’s launch due to “racist ownership laws.”
Cran stated that its decision could be reconsidered either on its own initiative or through a petition by an aggrieved party within 90 days. In 2024, the regulator had ordered Starlink to cease operations in Namibia for operating without a licence and warned the public against purchasing Starlink equipment or services.
Starlink has promoted its services as a high-speed internet solution for remote areas and said it planned to create local employment and partnerships with Namibian firms. However, the lack of local ownership compliance remains a barrier to its operations in the country.
The regulatory stance reflects Namibia’s ongoing effort to ensure domestic participation in key sectors, a policy shaped by the country’s history of colonial and minority rule, and its post-independence focus on economic equity.
