ONAMEGA – President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah said a heartfelt response from Cornelius Shimwaafeni (16) convinced her that the teenager deserved national recognition after he risked his life to save twins from drowning.
Addressing thousands of people at the 16th Omagongo Festival at the Uukwambi Traditional Authority Palace on Saturday, the President announced that the Omutundungu village resident will be conferred national hero status for his bravery.
His courageous actions have drawn admiration from across the country, with many Namibians describing him as a symbol of selflessness, humanity and bravery.
“I was touched by his response when somebody asked him, ‘What were you thinking when you jumped into that water to save those babies?’ His response was very quick.
He said, ‘I just said to myself, if these babies are going to die, I will die with them,’” the President narrated.
“That answer touched me deeply. In my capacity as President of the Republic of Namibia and with the powers vested in me by the Constitution, I have decided to honour Shimwaafeni as a national hero. All legal processes to confer that honour will be worked out with the family and it will be at a State-organised ceremony.
It is not a small thing. We must all embrace it,” she said.
Nandi-Ndaitwah continued that Shimwaafeni’s willingness to risk his life to save innocent children reflected the values that should be celebrated and encouraged throughout society.
She said acts of bravery such as this should never go unnoticed.
“We must honour citizens who demonstrate courage, humanity and compassion in service of others,” she added.
The announcement was met with loud applause and ululations from the crowd, many of whom welcomed the decision as a fitting recognition of an extraordinary act of courage.
Oshana governor Hofni Iipinge welcomed the decision, describing the teenager as a role model, whose actions demonstrated exceptional courage and a commitment to protecting human life.
He said Shimwaafeni’s story should inspire young Namibians to place the welfare of others above personal interests and fears.
“This young man placed the lives of innocent children above his own safety. Such courage deserves national recognition and appreciation,” Iipinge said.
Traditional leaders and members of the public attending the festival also praised the President’s decision, saying it sends a strong message that heroic acts will be recognised regardless of age or social standing.
Following the announcement, Maria Shikongo, who attended the festival, described Shimwaafeni as a true hero, whose actions restored hope and reminded Namibians of the importance of compassion and community responsibility.
“We are proud of this young boy. Not everyone would have taken such a risk. He acted without hesitation to save lives, and that is what makes him a hero,” Shikongo said.
Meanwhile, Iipinge commended Nandi-Ndaitwah for what he described as her compassion and commitment to the well-being of ordinary Namibians.
The governor revealed that the President recently contributed N$200 000 from her personal funds to assist a young nursing student diagnosed with bone marrow cancer, who requires specialised medical treatment in South Africa.
“When I informed the President about the situation, she responded positively and offered assistance. Her contribution has brought hope to a young Namibian, who urgently needs medical care,” Iipinge said.
According to the governor, the student’s family had been struggling to raise funds for treatment before the President intervened.
He said the gesture reflects her concern for vulnerable citizens, and demonstrates leadership that goes beyond public office.
“This is an example of compassionate leadership. Leaders should always look for ways to assist people in need whenever possible,” he added.