The Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA) has pushed back against recent claims of exclusion within Namibia’s hunting sector, saying the narrative does not reflect the full reality of efforts to expand participation and access.
In response to growing criticism around representation, particularly linked to international platforms such as the Dallas Safari Club, NAPHA president Hannes du Plessis said participation at such events is governed by strict rules set by organisers — not by the association itself.
He said that only registered exhibitors who have paid for stand space are permitted to market or sell services, a standard applied equally to all participants.
Du Plessis stressed that its own internal policies mirror these principles, noting that even NAPHA members are not allowed to share booth space for commercial purposes. According to the organisation, this is intended to ensure fairness for those who invest significantly in establishing an international presence.
Addressing specific concerns, du Plessis said members of the Namibia Emerging Tourism Operators (NETHO) were not excluded from attending the Dallas Safari Club event.
Instead, they were supported through funding from the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB), which covered flights, accommodation, and meals.
While at the event, NETHO representatives were granted access to the convention and invited to engage at the NAPHA booth — observing operations, interacting with visitors, and receiving guidance on how international hunting markets function.
They were also introduced to established outfitters as part of efforts to build industry exposure.
However, NAPHA noted that participants had been clearly informed that marketing or distributing promotional material without a registered stand would violate event rules. Despite this, du Plessis said an attempt was made to include promotional content at the NAPHA booth without prior agreement, prompting on-site intervention to ensure compliance.
The association said this context is critical, arguing that claims of “blocked” participation overlook both the opportunities provided and the clearly communicated boundaries.
Beyond international events, NAPHA highlighted ongoing initiatives to support entry into the hunting sector.
These include workshops and training programmes aimed at aspiring professionals — particularly previously disadvantaged Namibians — covering business development, regulatory frameworks and market access.
The association also pointed to policy progress following engagement with the tourism ministry, including the removal of the requirement for a hunting farm employment letter to sit for the hunting guide examination.
This change now allows any Namibian or resident over the age of 18 to pursue a qualification as a hunting guide, said du Plessis.
He further clarified that land ownership is not a prerequisite for entering the sector, describing the hunting guide pathway as a key entry point built on training, experience and professional development.
While acknowledging that challenges remain, the association maintained that its role is not to allocate land or control concessions, but to represent the profession, uphold standards and support growth within a regulated industry.
Looking ahead, du Plessis said it remains committed to expanding training opportunities, improving access to study materials, and engaging constructively with stakeholders to strengthen inclusivity.
NAPHA reiterated that membership remains open across multiple levels, encouraging broader participation from those interested in contributing to Namibia’s hunting sector.
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