Windhoek: President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has officially conferred national hero status on 16-year-old Kornelius Tulotokela Shimuafeni, recognising him as the youngest recipient in the nation's history. The ceremony occurred on Wednesday during the Heroes' Day commemoration at Heroes' Acre, attended by numerous Namibians from diverse backgrounds.According to Namibia Press Agency, with this honour, Shimuafeni becomes a Commander of The Most Distinguished Order of Namibia for his extraordinary heroism and selfless public service. His bravery was showcased on 17 May 2026, when he, while herding cattle in Omutundungu Village, witnessed a mother placing her nine-month-old twins in a pond and walking away. Despite his inability to swim, he entered the water and successfully rescued both infants, later stating, "If they were to die, I would also rather die with them."His village recalls another act of bravery when, in Grade 4, he climbed down an iron ladder to save two friends trapped in a well. At the time of his latest heroic act, he was a student at Nicodemus Primary School in the Omusati Region. Following his national recognition, he received a full scholarship to Ebenezer English Private School, covering his education from Grade 7 to Grade 12.Additionally, he was awarded N$200 000 by the state, with further financial contributions and support pledged by war veterans, government officials, and citizens. This presidential recognition acknowledges his exceptional courage, leadership under pressure, selflessness, and commitment to preserving life.President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasised that Shimuafeni acted selflessly on behalf of all Namibians to save the toddlers' lives. "He did not wake up that morning knowing that his courage would be tested. He did not act because cameras were watching. He did not act in expectation of recognition or reward. He saw human lives in danger, and he acted. He acted knowing well that he was putting his own life in danger," the President remarked."Kornelius' story invites us, on t his 60th commemoration of Heroes' Day, to ask a deeper question. Who is a hero in the Namibia of today?" she remarked.