Namibia has rejected an application by Elon Musk’s Starlink to provide satellite internet services in the country, citing a lack of local ownership.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) announced the decision, dealing a blow to Starlink’s expansion plans in southern Africa.
Starlink, which operates in about 25 African countries, had applied for a licence through its local unit, Starlink Internet Services Namibia (Pty) Limited.
Namibian law requires at least 51% of telecommunications companies to be owned by citizens or local entities, a policy aimed at increasing local ownership and tackling racial inequality.
Starlink has faced similar regulatory challenges in South Africa, where ownership rules have blocked its entry.
Musk has criticized these policies, calling them “racist ownership laws” and alleging they act as a barrier to foreign investment.
CRAN stated it could reconsider its decision within 90 days, either on its own motion or on a petition filed by an aggrieved party.
Starlink provides high-speed internet access to remote locations via thousands of low Earth orbit satellites, aiming to bridge the digital divide in areas with limited connectivity.
