Lesotho Under Pressure To Approve Starlink Licence

This follows an announcement in February by the Lesotho Communications Authority LCA, confirming receipt of Starlink Lesotho application for a network services licence. The company seeks to offer satellite internet services to businesses and the public across Lesotho.

But the bid has sparked strong local opposition. Vodacom Lesotho MD Mohale Ralebitso raised concerns during an LCA public consultation, arguing that Starlink should establish local shareholding before receiving a licence. "Local involvement may foster partnerships with domestic businesses, thereby creating investment opportunities and ensuring broader economic inclusion," said Ralebitso.

A local organisation, Advocates for the Supremacy of the Constitution, commonly known as Section Two, echoed those concerns in its formal submission to the LCA. "While Section Two recognises the potential benefits of expanded internet access, we respectfully oppose the issuance of this licence to Starlink due to the complete absence of local ownership in the company," said secretary-general Tjatjapa Sekabi.

But Lesotho is under pressure from the US.

On the other hand, the LCA says it continues with its public consultations. LCA public affairs manager Mothepane Kotele said the authority had concluded its review of public comments and was now "engaging with those who contributed".