Lawyer, Member of Parliament, and Information and Communication Technology Minister [Namibia]
The Honourable Emma Inamutila Theofelus is a lawyer, member of Parliament, and the Minister of Information and Communication Technology in the Republic of Namibia. Formerly serving as Deputy Minister, she has become a prominent advocate for women, girls, and digital literacy in Namibia.
In Parliament, Ms. Theofelus has made significant strides in advancing gender equity. In 2021, she successfully moved a motion to eliminate taxes on sanitary products in Namibia— a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving access to menstrual hygiene products.
As Minister, she is focused on enhancing communication about government programs, fostering a digitally literate nation, expanding internet access, and preparing Namibia for the 4th Industrial Revolution. Her leadership has positioned her as a forward-thinking policymaker dedicated to leveraging technology for national development.
Born and raised in Windhoek, Namibia, Ms. Theofelus holds an LLB Honours Degree from the University of Namibia, where she served as Secretary General of the Student Union in her final year. She also holds a diploma in business management from Amity University and a diploma in African feminism and gender studies from the University of South Africa. Currently, she is pursuing a master’s degree in ICT Policy and Regulation at the University of Witwatersrand.
Theofelus was awarded the prestigious United Nations Population Award (Individual Category) for her impactful work. She also serves as a board member of the Leadership Council of Africa REACH. Her influence has been recognized globally; she has been featured as one of the most influential African women by outlets such as the BBC, Avance Media, New Africa, and African Leadership Magazine. Additionally, she was nominated for the One Young World Politician of the Year Award in both 2020 and 2021.
Through her advocacy, leadership, and commitment to technological advancement, Honourable Emma Inamutila Theofelus continues to inspire change and shape the future of Namibia.