Namibia rejects Starlink’s license application, cites local ownership clause

Namibia has rejected a license application from Elon Musk’s satellite internet provider, Starlink, a setback in its ongoing efforts to operate in the country.

The decision, announced on Monday by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN), confirmed that Starlink applied through its local unit, Starlink Internet Services Namibia (Pty) Limited. 

While it didn’t provide full details of the rejection, CRAN noted that Starlink’s Namibian subsidiary lacks local ownership. This factor, which has stalled its launch in the country, is believed to have influenced the latest decision. 

Providing more context, CRAN noted that the application had been denied and added that individuals or media organisations can request the full reasons. 

The latest development further places a doubt on the Starlink launch in Namibia, as it looks to operate alongside strict local laws. The regulation requires local entities to have a certain share of the satellite company, the same rule that had delayed its launch in South Africa. 

Nevertheless, Starlink’s footprint in Africa is expanding. So far in 2026, the company has launched in Senegal (February) and the Central African Republic (March), further extending its presence in Africa to 27 markets. 

Also Read: Airtel and Starlink satellite-to-phone service under scrutiny in Kenya.

Starlink’s struggle in Namibia continues

Starlink’s history in Namibia has been one of drama, owing to the back and forth on regulatory approval and adherence to local laws. 

The company already started operating in Namibia but was forced to stop after CRAN issued a cease-and-desist order for operating in the country without a license. While the regulator confirmed that the company has applied for a telecommunications service license in Namibia, the application has been under review since 2024.

The decision on its license approval received a boost after Namibia considered adjusting its local law that requires domestic telecoms companies to have 51% ownership in a foreign company. 

Also, CRAN published Starlink’s license applications in the government’s Official Gazette on Nov. 28 and invited public comments for two weeks, signalling the resumption of the consideration of its application. 

However, the anticipation for launch has now been met with a major blow owing to the country’s local rule. The Elon Musk-owned company has argued on its website that it intends to partner with local firms in Namibia to create jobs and support economic growth.

The latest development shows that Namibia is not ready to adjust its law and still maintains the 51% local ownership rights. 

For Starlink, whose organisational structure is not set up to offer part of its shareholding rights to local companies, adjusting to local laws continues to remain a hurdle in securing a regulatory license in some African countries. 

The biggest hit

With more uncertainties on Starlink’s launch in the South African country, Namibians are the biggest hit.

Starlink’s proposed entry into Namibia generated significant interest due to its promise of high-speed internet through a network of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites.

While 91% of Namibians have access to 2G, 3G or 4G networks, the coverage is largely concentrated in populated areas. The remaining 9% remain outside mobile service zones due to the country’s size and sparse settlement patterns.

The company’s launch in Namibia will help bridge the digital divide, promote digital payment and financial inclusion, and further enhance connectivity. 

Starlink will also look to complement the activities of leading Namibian telcos, including MTC, Telecom Namibia and Paratus Namibia.

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