Namibia has rejected an application by Elon Musk’s satellite internet company, Starlink, to operate in the country, marking another setback for the firm’s expansion in southern Africa.
The application was submitted through its local subsidiary, Starlink Internet Services Namibia (Pty) Limited, according to a notice published by the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN).
Starlink, which provides high speed internet to remote areas via a network of low Earth orbit satellites, has been expanding globally in a bid to improve connectivity in underserved regions.
While CRAN did not provide detailed reasons for the rejection, it indicated that the full explanation could be requested from the authority. The regulator did, however, note that Starlink’s Namibian subsidiary does not have local ownership.
The company has previously stated that it intends to partner with local businesses to create jobs and support economic growth, despite criticism over its ownership structure.
The decision follows similar challenges in neighbouring South Africa, where Starlink has also been unable to secure a licence.
Local regulations require telecommunications companies to allocate a portion of ownership to historically disadvantaged groups, a policy aimed at addressing inequalities rooted in apartheid.
Musk has publicly opposed such requirements, arguing against ceding ownership in order to comply with the regulations.
The rejection in Namibia highlights ongoing regulatory hurdles facing Starlink as it seeks to expand its footprint across the African continent.
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