Staff Writer
Starlink says the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia’s (Cran) decision to reject its licence application is based on a misunderstanding of its operations and compliance.
The satellite internet provider responded after Cran declined its applications for a telecommunications service licence and radio spectrum access last week.
Cran cited failure to meet ownership and regulatory requirements in its decision.
However, in a statement, this week Starlink disputed the finding of non-compliance.
The company said it has, over the past three years, committed to setting up a local entity, meeting national security requirements and paying taxes and fees in line with its operations in 164 markets.
Starlink said the main issue is Namibia’s local ownership rule, which requires at least 51% local shareholding.
Starlink added that it cannot meet this requirement due to global shareholding restrictions.
It noted that while exemptions are possible, none was granted.
Starlink also questioned Cran’s public interest finding, saying it reflects a misunderstanding of how it meets data protection, national security and regulatory standards in other countries.
Starlink said most public submissions supported its application, claiming 98.6% were in favour, though it did not give details of the process.
The company urged Namibians to request a formal appeal. It said Cran’s framework allows decisions to be reconsidered within 90 days.
Starlink also pointed to gaps in Namibia’s digital access. It said more than 30% of the population has no internet access. It added that 65% of schools lack reliable connectivity and 80% of health facilities rely on 3G networks or worse.
The company said improved connectivity could support education, healthcare and economic growth, especially in rural areas.
Starlink rejected concerns about national sovereignty and monopoly risks. It said it has not shut down internet access in any market unless required by law.
The company said it has already set up a local entity in Namibia and remains committed to working within the country’s regulatory system.
Starlink is owned by SpaceX, which is owned by American billionaire Elon Musk.
Cran said it received 1 180 submissions, of which 1 164 supported the application.
Cran said Starlink met only three of the six required criteria under the Communications Act.
The application failed on ownership and control, national security and compliance history.
Cran’s executive for communication and consumer relations Mufaro Nesongano last week said Starlink did not meet the legal requirement for 51% local ownership and did not apply for an exemption.
He said the authority also had concerns about national security and oversight, noting that full foreign ownership makes it harder to enforce local laws.
Nesongano said Starlink had previously operated in Namibia without a valid licence and failed to respond to regulatory summons.
Starlink operates in African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Mozambique, Zambia, Ghana and Botswana.
