Story perspectives

Namibia Denies Starlink License, Citing Local Ownership Rules

3/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Namibia's Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) denied Starlink Internet Services Namibia's application for a telecommunications license and radio spectrum, citing lack of local ownership.
CRAN's notice offers a 90-day window for reconsideration but gives no specific reasons.
The decision follows Starlink's similar struggles in South Africa, where ownership rules hinder operations.
Elon Musk, founder and CEO of SpaceX, has called these policies discriminatory and harmful to foreign investment and market access.

History

Historical Context

The Telecommunications Act of 1996, signed by President Bill Clinton, marked a significant shift from the Communications Act of 1934 by promoting competition and reducing regulation in the U.S. telecommunications market. This act facilitated foreign investment and technological advancements, influencing companies like AT&T and Verizon. Similarly, Namibia's CRAN denied Starlink's application, reflecting ongoing tensions between local ownership rules and foreign investment in global tech markets.

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Story summary

Namibia's Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) denied Starlink Internet Services Namibia's application for a telecommunications license and radio spectrum, citing lack of local ownership.
CRAN's notice offers a 90-day window for reconsideration but gives no specific reasons.
The decision follows Starlink's similar struggles in South Africa, where ownership rules hinder operations.
Elon Musk, founder and CEO of SpaceX, has called these policies discriminatory and harmful to foreign investment and market access.

1 / 2