Starlink suffers new setback as Namibia rejects licence
Namibia Denies Licensing for Starlink Internet Services
Namibia Denies Licensing for Starlink Internet Services
On Mon, Oct 23, 2023, the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) announced that it has rejected an application from Starlink Internet Services Namibia (Pty) Limited for a license to operate its satellite internet services in the country. This marks a second instance of regulatory challenges for Starlink in the southern African region.
Starlink, a provider of high-speed internet through low Earth orbit satellites, had submitted its application via its local entity, Starlink Internet Services Namibia. However, CRAN did not provide specific reasons for the license refusal, stating only that the full rationale can be requested from the authority.
This marks a second instance of regulatory challenges for Starlink in the southern African region.
CRAN's statement highlighted that Starlink's local subsidiary lacks local ownership. Starlink has indicated plans to collaborate with local firms to foster job creation and economic growth in Namibia.
Starlink has also encountered regulatory hurdles in South Africa, where local ownership regulations have impeded its market entry. South African telecommunications policies mandate that companies, including those with foreign investment, must allocate 30 percent equity to historically disadvantaged groups. This policy aims to address historical racial inequities.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
