Emma Theofelus moves up to ministerial position

Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology Emma Theofelus was on 9 February elevated to become the new minister of information and communication technology.

The decision was made by new President Nangolo Mbumba.

Theofelus has stepped in the role of former Minister of Information and Communication Technology Peya Mushelenga who has been moved to become the new Minister of International Cooperation.

The ministerial position for international cooperation has been left vacant by former Minister Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah who had been appointed the new Vice President.

“As Minister, Honorable Theofelus is expected to strengthen the foundation for the accelerated use and development of ICT and ensure the inter-operability/comparability of the ICT systems,” President Mbumba announced.

“You are also expected to oversee effective implementation of communications legislation to address accessibility and affordability of information communication technologies by the majority of Namibians.”

As the Official Government Spokesperson, Theofelus must also ensure prompt and effective dissemination of information regarding Government programmes, communicate Cabinet decisions and proactively act as Media focal point.

She is further expected to promote unfettered access by the media to public information, in order to strengthen democracy and good governance; consolidate Government information systems to ensure cohesive and integrated media communications from all Offices, Ministries and Agencies.

Nangolo also appointed parliamentarian Mr Modestus Amutse to become the new Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Technology.

“As Deputy Minister, Honorable Amutse will assist the Minister in strengthening the foundation for the accelerated use and development of ICT and ensure inter-operability/comparability of the ICT systems,” Mbumba said.

President Mbumba also stated that as the deputy minister Amutse is also expected to assist the Theofelus oversee the effective implementation of communications legislation to address accessibility and affordability of information communication technologies by the majority of Namibians.