The government says Namibia's national honours system is meant to recognise service and exceptional achievement, not privilege, political connections or favouritism.
Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs Frans Kapofi provided the clarification as the country commemorated Heroes' Day on August 26.
As Namibia observes Heroes' Day, the founder of the Kufamosha Information Disability Centre, Petrus Theofelus, popularly known as Makiti, believes heroism can be demonstrated through compassion and making a difference in someone's life.
Kornelius Shimuafeni, the young boy who was accorded heroes' status by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, said he never expected to be honoured for his deed.
For him, it was an act of compassion for fellow human beings in need.
16-year-old Kornelius Shimuafeni has been conferred the award of the Most Distinguished Order, third class, for saving the lives of nine-month-old twin babies from drowning.
On the 26th of August 1966, the first shots of the Namibian Liberation Struggle rang out at Omugulugombashe in the Omusati Region – forever altering the course of the nation's history.
Fifteen-year-old Katutura-based innovator and tech enthusiast Edward Ikwambi has turned his passion for technology into an opportunity to teach and inspire others.
Residents in the south share their views on the legacy of freedom, the evolution of rural development, and the dreams of the "Born-Free" generation,
NBC reporter Charmaine Boois compiled this special package on what Heroes' Day means to the south of the country.
As Namibia prepares to commemorate Heroes Day, questions are being raised about why fewer young people appear to participate in national commemorations.
Experts say the problem may be rooted in how history is taught and how these events are presented to younger generations.
President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah says while Namibia has secured its political freedom and sovereignty, the country's focus must now shift to economic emancipation.
The 16-year-old Cornelius Shimwaafeni from Omutundungu Village in Oshana, who saved nine-month-old twins from drowning, will also be conferred a national hero status by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah tomorrow at the commemoration of Heroes Day.
