The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has instructed Starlink to cease its operations in the country due to non-compliance with local licensing requirements.
CRAN explained that the SpaceX subsidiary has been offering its services in Namibia without obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals. As a result, the public has been prohibited from purchasing Starlink services until the proper licenses are granted. This decision highlights the importance of adhering to local regulations and ensures that all service providers, including international ones, follow the same legal standards.
According to Namibian law, all telecommunications providers must secure a license from CRAN before offering services within the country. While Starlink has applied for this license, the application is still under review and has not yet been approved. This regulatory framework is designed to promote fair competition and ensure that both local and international operators comply with the same standards.
CRAN emphasized that the licensing requirement applies to all entities, regardless of their global structure, to maintain a level playing field between local companies and foreign providers. This move also ensures the protection of Namibian consumers, allowing them to access services that meet the country’s legal and quality standards.
Starlink, known for revolutionizing internet connectivity in many underserved regions, has faced challenges in expanding into new markets due to regulatory issues. In April 2024, for instance, Cameroon banned Starlink kits and seized equipment at the border due to similar regulatory concerns. This was part of a wider challenge for the company as it rapidly extends its service into countries that have varying telecom regulations.
Despite Starlink’s website listing a planned 2025 launch in Namibia, the company’s terminals and equipment have already been confiscated by local authorities, further highlighting the tensions between Starlink’s global ambitions and local regulatory requirements.