Satellite internet and communications company whose Starlink network application has been rejected by Namibian regulators over ownership requirements and national security concerns.
Key points drawn from coverage. Tap a point to see the original sentence.
The Namibian
SpaceX operates Starlink
“Starlink, operated by SpaceX, is a satellite-based internet service that has been rapidly expanding across Africa, particularly targeting rural and underserved areas where traditional broadband infrastructure is limited.”
Cran rejects Starlink licenceNew Era
SpaceX operates Starlink satellite internet network
“Starlink is Musk's satellite internet network operated by SpaceX, which is designed to provide high-speed, low-latency broadband internet globally, particularly in remote and rural areas.”
Starlink decision expected in MarchThe Namibian
SpaceX caught the booster in mechanical arms on its return to the launch pad during fifth test flight
“The SpaceX vehicle's lower half manoeuvred back beside its launch tower where it was caught in a giant pair of mechanical arms, as part of its fifth test flight.”
Elon Musk's Starship booster captured in world firstThe Namibian
SpaceX has over 5,000 employees in California and multiple rocket development facilities and launch centres
“The magic began way back in 2002 when Musk decided to start SpaceX, a company which has now amassed over 5 000 employees in California and is responsible for setting up several rocket development facilities sand launch centres.”
Technology Through Elon MuskThe Namibian
SpaceX blasted off Falcon Heavy rocket on first test flight with Tesla Roadster
“SpaceX's big new rocket blasted off on Tuesday on its first test flight, carrying a red sports car aiming for an endless road trip past Mars.”
There's a car tripping in space right nowElon Musk has suggested the US government may be behind speed restrictions on Ukraine's weapons connected to SpaceX's Starlink network, which disrupted Kyiv's battlefield missions on Tuesday. Starlink imposed a 100mph speed limit that caused weapons travelling faster to lose connectivity, though service was partially restored by Wednesday evening.
15 October 2026 · The Namibian →
Elon Musk has suggested the US government may be behind speed restrictions on Ukraine's weapons connected to SpaceX's Starlink network, which disrupted Kyiv's battlefield missions on Tuesday. Starlink imposed a 100mph speed limit that caused weapons travelling faster to lose connectivity, though service was partially restored by Wednesday evening.
15 October 2026 · The Namibian →
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has upheld its rejection of Starlink Internet Services Namibia's licence applications, emphasizing that the rule of law applies equally to all, including foreign investors. While acknowledging Starlink's potential to improve connectivity in remote areas, the editorial argues that adherence to national legislation must supersede admiration for technological innovation.
23 June 2026 · Windhoek Observer →
Namibia's Information and Communication Technology Minister Emma Theofelus said the rejection of Starlink's application to provide satellite internet services was lawful and based on regulatory requirements, including the mandatory 51% local ownership rule and national security concerns. The minister noted that Starlink's proposed 100% foreign ownership model raised material regulatory considerations regarding jurisdiction and government oversight, and that the company had also operated unlawfully without a licence.
25 March 2026 · New Era →
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (Cran) has rejected Starlink's applications for both a class comprehensive telecommunications service licence and a Spectrum licence for satellite internet services. The decision was published in the Government Gazette, with the authority citing that Starlink has 0% Namibian citizen ownership, and aggrieved parties may petition for reconsideration within 90 days.
25 March 2026 · The Namibian →
CRAN has authorised four local providers—Echo Namibia, Oblixx, RocketNet, and Blue Technologies—to operate LEO satellite internet services via OneWeb, bringing broadband-quality connectivity to rural areas as traditional telecommunications infrastructure deteriorates. Farmers and remote communities are key beneficiaries, with providers offering tailored packages and cost-effective options including hardware rental and collaborative arrangements.
17 March 2026 · Informanté →
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia expects to announce its decision on Starlink's application to operate in Namibia by the end of Q1 2026. The main issue holding up the application is Namibia's legal requirement that telecommunications licensees have 51% domestic ownership, which Starlink is seeking an exemption from, though public submissions on the application have been largely supportive (1,164 in favour versus 16 opposed).
7 January 2026 · New Era →