Namibia has rejected an application by Elon Musk-owned Starlink for a licence to provide satellite internet services in the country, dealing the company a second setback in southern Africa.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) announced the decision without giving reasons for its refusal, but noted that Starlink's Namibian subsidiary did not have local ownership.
Starlink has not yet commented on the decision.
It operates in about 25 African countries but has faced regulatory challenges in others, including South Africa, where ownership rules have also blocked its entry.
Namibian law requires that at least 51% shares in any telecommunications company must be owned by citizens or local entities.
In 2024, the regulator issued an order against Starlink, accusing it of operating without a licence and instructing it to cease all operations in Namibia. The government also advised the public not to purchase Starlink terminal equipment or subscribe to its services, as doing so would be illegal.
Musk has publicly criticized regulations in South Africa, attributing his company's failure to launch to what he calls 'racist ownership laws' but has also acknowledged that compliance with local laws is essential for operating in African markets.
