Starlink says it will begin offering affordable high-speed broadband across Namibia as soon as its telecommunications and spectrum licences are approved, arguing that slow and limited connectivity in the country, is hindering access to education, healthcare and essential services.
SpaceX Vice President and Head of Starlink Global Subsidiaries Lauren Dreyer said the company has already established a local presence and stands ready to meet all regulatory requirements.
“Starlink can immediately introduce affordable broadband to Namibians no matter where they are located and we are so excited that @CRAN_na is now evaluating Starlink’s license application. We have already established a local Namibian company, are discussing agreements with local retailers and resellers, and stand ready to pay all required fees and taxes — just like other operators,” she said.
The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) has now formally published Starlink’s licence applications for public comment.
Dreyer said reliable connectivity is central to socioeconomic advancement and that Starlink looks forward to serving remote and underserved areas. She encouraged members of the public to take part in the consultation process ahead of the 12 December deadline.
“Namibia is at a pivotal moment in its digital future. The country ranks 149th out of 156 countries globally in median download speed and fixed internet penetration rates are below 5 percent,” she said.
Dreyer further noted that several African countries have recognised the benefits of satellite broadband and removed ownership restrictions to unlock digital progress.
She said Zimbabwe, Kenya, Ghana, Botswana, Malawi, Madagascar and the DRC “have eliminated regulatory barriers requiring local ownership” and are advancing rapidly.
She added that Namibia has legal provisions that allow the Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, similar flexibility in granting ownership conditions.
The applications, submitted by Starlink Internet Services Namibia (Pty) Ltd in June 2024, were published in Government Gazette No. 8795 on 28 November 2025.
According to CRAN Executive for Communications and Consumer Relations Mufaro Nesongano, the publication activates a mandatory 14-day public consultation period ending on 12 December.
He said the process is designed to ensure transparency and involvement by all affected parties before a decision is taken.
Nesongano said Starlink has applied for a Class Comprehensive Telecommunications Service Licence, which would permit nationwide provision of low-earth orbit satellite internet.
The accompanying spectrum application seeks frequencies in the 10.7 to 14.7 GHz range to support fixed-satellite broadband services for both households and commercial users.The Paratus Group entered into an agreement in 2023 to become the distributor for Starlink’s high-speed services across the African continent, including Namibia.
