Starlink denied licence in Namibia over ownership rules

Namibia has rejected an application from Elon Musk’s Starlink to operate satellite internet services in the country, citing local ownership requirements.

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) noted that Starlink’s local subsidiary did not meet the legal threshold requiring at least 51% ownership by Namibian citizens or entities.

The decision marks a second regulatory setback for the company in southern Africa, after similar ownership rules blocked its entry into South Africa.

Musk has criticized such policies as “racist ownership laws,” while South African authorities maintain that compliance with local legislation is standard for foreign investors.

Starlink has not yet commented. Cran said it may reconsider within 90 days if a petition is filed.

In 2024, the regulator ordered Starlink to cease operations for lacking a licence. The company operates in about 25 African countries.