Starlink, the satellite internet business owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, has sharply criticised the recent decision by Namibia’s telecom regulator to reject its application for a licence to operate in the country. The company called the regulator’s reasoning “misleading” and has urged Namibians to request a formal appeal of the decision.
What Happened
Last week, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) declined Starlink’s application for both a telecommunications service licence and a radio spectrum licence — essential requirements for legally offering internet services in the country. The regulator’s official notice did not spell out extensive details beyond the rejection itself, but it marked the second significant regulatory setback for Starlink in southern Africa.
Why the Licence Was Rejected
Namibian law requires telecom operators to comply with several licensing criteria, including local ownership rules. Regulators and government officials pointed to ownership and control requirements as central among the issues Starlink failed to meet — notably the rule that a majority stake must be held by Namibian citizens or locally controlled entities. The government has also highlighted broader regulatory and compliance considerations.
Despite this, Starlink says the reasons given by the regulator misrepresent the situation and that there’s strong public support for their entry — the company claims around 98.6 % of public comments in the consultation phase backed its application. It is this discrepancy between regulatory messaging and what Starlink says the public wants that the company labelled as misleading.
Starlink Vows to Appeal
Starlink has signalled that it will challenge Namibia’s decision and pursue an appeal process, with hopes of overturning the rejection. The company argues that its service could play a significant role in expanding internet access in rural and underserved areas of the country.
What This Means Regionally
This development comes amid broader debates across Africa about balancing foreign tech investment with local regulatory and ownership frameworks. Namibian regulators say they remain committed to safeguarding local interests and enforcing established telecom laws, even as they review applications from innovative global players.
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