Emma Kantema-Gaomas

Dr. Emma Kantema is a Namibian politician who is currently serving as a Minister of Gender and Child Welfare of the Republic of Namibia since 21 March 2025. She has been a member of the National Assembly for SWAPO since 2020. From 21 March 2020 to 21 March 2025, she has served as Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service.

Early life and education

Dr Emma Kantema was born in Rupara, Kavango. She was the eldest of five daughters and attended her local school, before moving to Windhoek, and pursuing a Degree in Natural Resource Management at the Namibia University of Science and Technology. She holds a Doctorate Degree in Business Administration from the University of Namibia. she also has a Master's degree in Business Administration.

In March 2020, President Hage Geingob appointed Kantema-Gaomas as Deputy Minister of Sport, Youth and National Service. Concurrently, she was also appointed deputy by decree in the National Assembly by the President, allowing her to be a member of the government. She is a member of the Central Committee of the SWAPO party.

Dr Kantema is married to her husband Bryan Gaomab and they have two sons.