tech
March 25, 2026
Namibia denies Starlink operating license over ownership rules
Namibia has rejected Elon Musk’s Starlink telecom license application, citing ownership rules, as African regulators tighten oversight of satellite internet services
TL;DR
- Namibia's Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) has rejected Starlink's application for a telecommunications license.
- The rejection is primarily due to Starlink's wholly foreign-owned subsidiary lacking the required local ownership.
- CRAN previously issued Starlink a cease-and-desist order and warned the public against using its services.
- Similar regulatory resistance has been faced by Starlink in other African countries, including Cameroon and South Africa, often related to local ownership laws and national security concerns.
- Namibia's decision highlights growing tensions between African governments and Elon Musk's satellite internet provider.
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