Emma Theofelus leads Namibia’s digital transformation, advancing ICT policy, promoting gender equality, empowering youth, and fostering innovation.
In February 2024, Emma Inamutila Theofelus, aged 27, became Namibia’s Minister of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), making her the youngest female government minister in both Namibia and Africa.
Her journey began early. Between 2013 and 2018, she served as Deputy Speaker of Namibia’s Children’s Parliament, and before that, she was Junior Mayor of Windhoek. These roles ignited her passion for public service and youth representation. Later, as Secretary General of the University of Namibia Student Union, she became a strong advocate for young people and women’s rights, grounding her activism in policy and civic engagement.
Theofelus holds an LLB Honours Degree from the University of Namibia, a diploma in Business Management from Amity University, and a diploma in African Feminism and Gender Studies from the University of South Africa.
In March 2020, at age 23, she was appointed Deputy Minister of ICT, making her one of Africa’s youngest cabinet members. She also led Namibia’s public communication response, ensuring citizens across urban and rural communities received accurate health information during the COVID-19 pandemic. That period cemented her reputation as a capable communicator and forward-thinking leader.
Theofelus’s most notable legislative achievement came in 2021 when, as a Member of Parliament, she moved a motion to remove taxes on sanitary products. The motion succeeded, and by 2023, Namibia officially abolished VAT on sanitary pads, thereby enhancing access to menstrual hygiene nationwide. It marked a milestone in gender equity and women’s health policy.
As Minister of ICT, Theofelus now oversees Namibia’s transition into the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Her priorities include strengthening digital infrastructure, expanding rural internet access, and boosting digital literacy. She is also advocating for financial inclusion through digital payments by working to introduce PayPal and Apple Pay in Namibia.
Additionally, she has played a key role in discussions to enable YouTube monetisation for Namibian creators, allowing them to earn income from digital content. These initiatives aim to prepare Namibia’s youth for global digital participation while promoting innovation-driven growth.
The female politician has earned widespread international recognition. In 2022, she received the United Nations Population Award (Individual Category) for her contributions to gender equality and youth empowerment. The BBC listed her among the 100 Most Influential Women in the World in 2021, and Avance Media has ranked her multiple times among Africa’s 100 Most Influential Young Leaders.
Emma Theofelus also serves on the Leadership Council of Africa REACH and has twice been nominated for the One Young World Politician of the Year Award.
