The Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) is asking for members of the Namibian public and other interested institutions to provide comments on the application of Starlink.
The application submitted in June 2025 seeks for Starlink, a telecommunications company owned by multi-billionaire Elon Musk, to enter the Namibian market.
“The application has been published in Government Gazette 8795 Notice Number 897 for public comment on 28 November 2025. The public and all stakeholders are invited to submit written comments within 14 days from 28 November 2025,” said CRAN’s manager for communication and consumer relations Mr Mufaro Nesongano.
Nesongano stated that the commenting period will end on Friday, 12 December 2025.
“This publication marks a critical step in the licensing process, enabling stakeholders and the public to review the application details and submit feedback,” stated Mr Nesongano.
Once the comments have been received, the Authority will consider the application in full and evaluate it against the licensing criteria set out in section 39 of the Communications Act and licensing regulations.
These include scrutiny of ownership structures, technical and financial capabilities, confidentiality and neutrality of the service, standards and specifications, and network provisions relating to national defence, public security and fair competition.
“We clarify that the outcome of the ownership application has been received from the Minister of ICT and, in terms of the law, the full licence applications must now be assessed against all applicable criteria, including ownership,” added Nesongano.
“Following the public consultation period, CRAN will undertake a thorough evaluation of all aspects of the application to ensure full compliance with the licensing criteria under the Communications Act (No. 8 of 2009).
“The Authority will keep the public informed of the next steps once the commenting period has closed.
“Moreover, CRAN remains committed to transparent and efficient regulatory processes. The Authority will continue to keep the public informed on the progress and final outcome of the Starlink licensing application,” said Nesongano.
Mr Musk, who is a United States citizen but was born in South Africa, is a friend of US President Donald Trump and is someone who is seen by many as not friendly with African interests.
His company, Starlink, operates by having satellites orbing around the world providing internet connections to consumers in countries where it is allowed to operate.
Some fears associated with Starlink’s application include the fear that the company might be used by its owners to spy on governments and activities which are not in line with US interests.
In the photo: With US$500 billion to his name Mr Musk is the richest man on earth.
