Lesotho Grants Operational License to Starlink
On April 14, 2025, the Lesotho Communications Authority (LCA) announced that it has granted Starlink a 10-year license to operate and provide satellite internet services in the country. This marks the entry of the first satellite internet provider in Lesotho and represents a significant step forward in advancing the nation’s digital transformation agenda. This came after the company, operating under Starlink Lesotho (Pty) Ltd, submitted its application in April 2024, necessitating LCA to restructure its existing licensing and classification frameworks to accommodate low-earth orbit satellite technology adequately.
The revised regulatory framework was officially gazetted on 31 January 2025, enabling the formal processing of Starlink’s application for a Network Service License to offer satellite internet services to individuals and businesses throughout Lesotho. This move coincides with Lesotho’s efforts to engage the United States in discussions on reciprocal trade tariffs, following the imposition of a 50% levy—one of the highest under a list of targeted economies announced earlier this month by U.S. President Donald Trump, though later indicated to be temporarily reduced.
Entry Barriers to the Lesotho Market
Starlink’s entry into Lesotho has also met strong opposition from local stakeholders, particularly the country’s leading telecommunications providers. During an LCA public consultation, Vodacom Lesotho Managing Director Mohale Ralebitso argued that Starlink should establish local shareholding before receiving a license. A local civil society organisation echoed this sentiment, opposing the license because of the company’s complete lack of local ownership. These concerns highlight broader tensions surrounding Starlink’s operations across Africa, particularly the growing demand for local partnerships. A notable example is South Africa, where local ownership regulations have delayed Starlink’s official entry into the market.
Starlink’s entry into Lesotho marks its 21st entry into the African market, after its recent expansion into Somalia and Niger in Q1 2025. This further underscores the company’s accelerated push to widen satellite internet connectivity in emerging markets like Africa.