Namibia Blocks Starlink’s Orbit: Regulatory Hurdles for Satellite Internet

Namibia has denied Starlink's applications for a telecommunications service licence and radio spectrum access. This decision, documented in a government gazette, allows a 90-day period for reconsideration. Starlink, facing regulatory challenges across Africa, previously received a cease-and-desist order for unlicensed operations in Namibia.

Namibia has declined applications from the satellite internet provider Starlink for a telecommunications service license and access to radio spectrum, as revealed in a government notice.

The notice, dated March 23, states that the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) may reconsider its decision within 90 days if an aggrieved party petitions or if the authority chooses to review it autonomously.

Starlink, which operates in several African nations but faces hurdles in many, including resistance from state telecom monopolies, did not immediately comment. Previously, in November 2024, CRAN issued a cease-and-desist order against Starlink, citing operations without a license.