· Government action
Lesotho grants Starlink a 10-year licence weeks after a 50% US tariff announcement
What he said or did
The Lesotho Communications Authority granted Starlink Lesotho a 10-year licence, calling it a significant step forward in the country's digital transformation
(Business Day). Bloomberg reported the move came as Lesotho sought to improve ties with the US.
Background
Trump had announced a 50% tariff on Lesotho's goods in early April before pausing it. An internal State Department memo reported by the Washington Post said licensing Starlink demonstrates goodwill and intent to welcome U.S. businesses
(Washington Post; Reuters).
Official response
Civil society group Section 2 said the regulator disregarded local objections that Starlink Lesotho was 100% foreign-owned
(Business Day).
Sources
- Reuters (via Business Day)15 Apr 2025
- Bloomberg14 Apr 2025
- The Washington Post7 May 2025
This entry records what was publicly said or done, as reported by the sources above. Quotes are attributed to the person who made them.
