Ngurare praises teen who rescued dumped twins from a pond

Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare has praised 16-year-old Cornelius Shimwaafeni, the teenager who rescued nine-month-old twins after a woman allegedly dumped them in water ponds at Omutundungu village in the Etayi constituency over the weekend.

According to police reports, the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.

Ngurare commended the learner from the Omusati Region yesterday during a graduation ceremony at Triumphant College in Windhoek, describing him as a symbol of courage and humanity.

“The young man did not need a degree to be human, but he demonstrated it. The young man did not need to speak good English in order to give the gesture of humanity that he did,” Ngurare said.

The Prime Minister said Cornelius’ actions should inspire the nation, particularly young people, adding that Namibia should celebrate ordinary citizens who step forward to save lives and protect others.

“He is our young hero,” Ngurare said to applause from the audience.

Ngurare also revealed that this was not the first time Cornelius had risked his life to save others after he allegedly rescued two boys aged between eight and 10 who had fallen into a water well while herding livestock.

According to Ngurare, Cornelius heard the boys crying for help before rushing to the scene and pulling them to safety.

Ngurare congratulated the teenager, his parents, teachers and community, saying the country should take pride in raising young people with strong values and compassion.

“In the spirit of that young man, I see heroes and heroines among all of you,” he told graduates.

Cornelius has since been widely referred to on social media as “the hero”, with many Namibians praising his bravery and selflessness.