Namibia halts Starlink operations amid licensing dispute

The news comes just days after fellow African nation Chad approved Starlink to begin operations in the country Namibia’s Communications Regulatory Authority (CRAN) has ordered Starlink, the satellite internet provider owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, to cease business for operating without license in the country. While Starlink has filed an application for an operating license, the CRAN has yet to grant it, and has cautioned consumers against purchasing or using Starlink equipment. “The public is hereby advised not to purchase Starlink terminal equipment or subscribe to its services, as such activities are illegal,” said an emailed statement. “Investigators have already confiscated illegal terminals from consumers and have opened criminal cases with the Namibian police in this regard.” The escalation highlights Starlink’s ongoing challenges in establishing a foothold in Africa, where it faces regulatory hurdles and resistance from a number of state-owned telecoms monopolies. However since the start of 2023, Starlink has been launched in 15 African countries. Starlink’s services,...

Read More........ → December 02, 2024

The importance of saving and investing

Consumer EducationYour financial wellbeing starts with financial literacy. The more you know, the better equipped you are to plan and manage your finances.AVBOB proudly brings you Mutual Wellness in 60 Seconds, a series on financial wellness matters, and all things ‘mutual’.As Africa’s largest mutual society, AVBOB takes your financial health seriously.In the video below, we look at the importance of saving and investing.Saving and investingWhether it’s being prepared for life’s challenges or reaching your financial goals, savings can assist to make things happen.Despite tough economic conditions, you don’t have to give up your dreams of financial stability, quality education, a well-earned holiday or an emergency fund. The secret to successful investing is to start small.You can always increase the amount you invest. However, the key is to simply start… the sooner the better.Did you know that AVBOB offers 5-year and 10-year investment accounts that let you save from as little as R250 per month? Over and above the interest that you will receive, you will also be eligible to get bonuses...

Read More........ → October 01, 2024

Why does tourism sector matter for South Africa’s economy?

Before the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic to our shores, the tourism sector contributed 3.7% to the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP).We continue to make steady progress as we recover by injecting some 2.3% in the year 2021.Our industry has a huge impact on the services sector, manufacturing, and agriculture.It employs a significant number of young people in both urban and rural settings.Tourism has very few barriers to entry for both skilled and unskilled workers.For many years, tourism has been in the top 3 export earnings level for the country. This is a critical industry that needs to be leveraged better by all of us in both the private and public sectors.In recent times, we have seen some of our sector’s listed establishments realising significant revenue growth as they released their financial results.These results demonstrate the strength of tourism, and therefore, the need to give the sector more attention and support.What this translates to, are real jobs for people. As the private sector lobby, we have partnered with organisations such as the Youth Employment Service...

Read More........ → September 27, 2024