While negotiations are said to be at an advanced stage, the deal has not yet been finalised and remains complex….reports Africa Daily Newsdesk
Amazon is in advanced talks to acquire satellite communications firm Globalstar in a deal valued at around $9 billion, a move that could intensify competition with Starlink across emerging broadband markets, particularly in Africa.
According to Business Insider Africa, people familiar with the matter said the proposed acquisition would give Amazon access to Globalstar’s existing satellite infrastructure, strengthening its position in the fast growing low Earth orbit internet sector. While negotiations are said to be at an advanced stage, the deal has not yet been finalised and remains complex.
One of the key complications is Apple’s 20 per cent stake in Globalstar, which adds an additional layer of corporate negotiation. Both Amazon and Globalstar have declined to officially confirm the discussions, with a Globalstar executive stating the company does not comment on speculation.
The report by Business Insider Africa also noted that if completed, the deal would significantly accelerate Amazon’s satellite internet ambitions under its Project Kuiper programme, aimed at delivering high speed broadband to underserved and remote regions. The initiative has recently expanded its focus in Africa, where demand for reliable connectivity continues to rise.
Amazon has already begun deploying Kuiper satellites, but it remains far behind Starlink in scale. Project Kuiper currently has just over 180 satellites in orbit, compared to more than 7,000 operated by Starlink, which has built a strong global presence.
Operated by SpaceX and led by Elon Musk, Starlink has already rolled out services in several African countries, including Nigeria, Kenya, Rwanda and Mozambique. Its low latency internet has become increasingly important for rural connectivity, mining operations and digital financial services in regions with limited infrastructure.
Despite its rapid expansion, Starlink continues to face regulatory approvals and licensing delays in multiple African markets, leaving room for competitors like Amazon to gain ground as the race for satellite broadband dominance intensifies.
Namibia has denied a licence to SpaceX’s Starlink broadband service, despite growing demand for improved connectivity in the sparsely populated country, local media reported.
According to reports, the decision was published in the government gazette dated March 23, though authorities did not provide specific reasons for rejecting Starlink’s application.
Namibia, which has a population of about 3.1 million and is among the least densely populated countries in the world, faces significant challenges in expanding digital infrastructure, making satellite based internet services potentially valuable.
The latest move follows earlier action by regulators. In November 2024, Namibia’s communications authority issued a cease and desist order against Starlink, accusing it of operating without a valid licence. Officials said equipment had been brought into the country illegally and warned consumers against purchasing or using the service.
Authorities also confirmed that illegal Starlink terminals had been seized from users.
