Namibia Orders Starlink to Halt Operations Over ...

Namibia Orders Starlink to Halt Operations Over Licensing Issues

Zim Now Writer

The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia has issued a cease-and-desist order to Starlink, Elon Musk’s satellite internet provider, for operating in the country without proper authorization.

In a statement released on November 28, CRAN revealed that its investigation found Starlink operating a telecommunications network in Namibia without the required license. "The Authority issued a cease-and-desist order on November 26, 2024, instructing Starlink to immediately cease all operations in Namibia," the statement said.

Starlink, a subsidiary of SpaceX, has submitted an application for a telecommunications service license, but CRAN stated that the application is still under review. Until the licensing process is complete, Starlink is prohibited from offering its services in the country.

CRAN also warned the public against purchasing Starlink equipment or subscribing to its services, deeming such activities illegal. As part of its enforcement efforts, the regulator has confiscated unauthorized Starlink terminals from consumers and initiated criminal proceedings in collaboration with Namibian police.

This regulatory crackdown follows similar actions in other African countries. Earlier in the year, Cameroon seized Starlink equipment at its ports, citing the absence of a valid license.

Despite Starlink’s growing presence across Africa, its expansion faces resistance from some state-controlled telecom operators and regulatory hurdles in countries like Namibia. SpaceX has not yet commented on the situation.