• Namibia’s communications regulator (CRAN) opens public consultation on Starlink’s license applications.

• Starlink seeks national telecom license and spectrum rights in the 10.7–14.7 GHz bands.

• The move targets improved connectivity in remote areas where terrestrial networks are limited.

Namibia has initiated the licensing process for Starlink to provide satellite-based Internet services. The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) published Starlink’s license applications in the Official Gazette on 28 November and invited public comments over a 14-day period.

Starlink applied for a national telecommunications license to offer “high-speed Internet via low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, serving proprietary terminals for businesses and households with nationwide coverage.” The regulator noted that the system is also designed to supplement capacity for existing mobile operators. Starlink also requested a spectrum license in the 10.7–14.7 GHz frequency bands. CRAN did not disclose financial details.

The announcement follows a CRAN cease-and-desist order requiring Starlink to stop operations after the regulator found the company operated without a proper telecom license, despite having submitted an application.

In June, Emilia Nghikembua, CRAN Director General, said Namibia is exploring LEO satellites to address connectivity in hard-to-reach regions. “In areas like agricultural lands and isolated lodges, we deal with regions covering over one million hectares. Terrestrial networks cannot effectively serve these locations,” she explained. Nghikembua added that while 91% of the population has 2G, 3G, or 4G coverage, geographic coverage remains limited due to the country’s large territory and low population density, leaving 9% of people underserved.

Starlink’s potential entry comes amid growing competition in Namibia’s Internet market, historically dominated by MTC and Telecom Namibia. Paratus, previously focused on fixed Internet, launched a 4G mobile network in September 2025. According to DataReportal, Namibia had 1.97 million Internet subscribers, corresponding to a 64.4% penetration rate at the start of the year.

Isaac K. Kassouwi