Namibia blocks Starlink from operating
Change
Namibia's Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) rejected Starlink's licence application to provide satellite internet because its Namibian subsidiary did not meet the statutory 51% local-ownership requirement.
Why it matters
The refusal bars Starlink from legally marketing, activating or offering satellite internet services in Namibia until the ownership or licencing condition is fixed. Market entry now requires either restructuring corporate ownership to satisfy the 51% local-share rule or securing a successful petition or regulatory review to reopen the application process.
Implications
- • Starlink's Namibian subsidiary corporate and regulatory teams must restructure shareholdings so Namibian citizens or local entities hold at least 51% before reapplying for a licence — CRAN will reject applications that fail the ownership threshold.
- • Namibian importers and retailers of satellite terminal equipment must cease importing, selling, or promoting Starlink terminals because CRAN has advised purchases and subscriptions would be illegal under the current order.
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