Ethical hunting critical for conservation efforts

Ethical hunting in Namibia is critical, not just for preserving the integrity of the hunting community but for the long-term sustainability of conservation efforts. Namibia Professional Hunting Association (Napha) president Axel Cramer said that hunting provides substantial economic support for conservation, communities, and wildlife management. “However, ethical hunting practices ensure that this is done responsibly, with respect for both the animals and the environment.”He said that it also helps maintain a positive image of the hunting industry, particularly when done within the legal and moral guidelines that promote conservation and wildlife management.According to Cramer NAPHA has a clear code of conduct which is to respect all the laws and regulations governing Namibia and to show and demonstrate respect for all fauna and flora, the environment and the non-hunting and hunting public.It also states to act responsibly towards all land owners and/or holders and their employees and treat them fairly at all times, to act responsibly and with courtesy towards all clients, agents and officials and live up to the promises made, to maintain honesty and integrity at all times and to take all precautions to ensure the safety of clients, employees and anybody else involved during a hunt.Furthermore it includes to promote and demonstrate responsible management practices to ensure the sustainable use of the resource base and to maintain bio-diversity and to practice the principals of fair chase as defined by the Code of Sport Hunting Conduct for Africa.Cramer said that it also states to exercise professionalism at all times in all aspects of the hunting profession and to always ensure internationally acceptable humane practices in the utilization of wildlife.According to Cramer, Fair Chase is defined by the African Code of Hunting Ethics. This states that the pursuit of free wild animals, possessing the natural behavioral inclination to escape from a hunter, and be fully free to do so and that wild animals are not to be hunted with an artificial light source or other similar technical equipment. A motorized mode of transport may not be used to chase the said animal.It further says that no ethical hunter, while hunting, shall willfully disturb or take visibly pregnant females or females with dependent young.According to this, wild animals should exist as a naturally interacting individuals of a wild sustainable population located in an area that meets both spatial and temporal requirements of the population of which that individual is a member.“Wild animals should be hunted sustainably within an ecological functional system.” Cramer also added that NAPHA strongly discourages the practice of taking selfies with trophy animals and sharing them on social media, especially in ways that may be seen as disrespectful or sensationalized. “This practice can contribute to negative perceptions of hunting, particularly from those who do not understand its role in conservation. We believe that trophies should be respected for the valuable role they play in wildlife management and conservation, not exploited for personal gain or popularity on social media.”Cramer said that an ethical and responsible hunter respects the natural environment and wildlife management practices. They hunt with the understanding that their actions have long-term implications for wildlife conservation and local communities. “They follow all legal guidelines, use humane hunting methods, and ensure that their actions contribute to the overall sustainability of the ecosystem. For me, an ethical hunter also contributes to the community, whether it's through employment, conservation efforts, or promoting responsible hunting practices that protect both wildlife and the surrounding environment.”Cramer added that he believes that the future of hunting in Namibia is positive, provided that hunters maintain strict ethical standards and continue to educate the public and hunting community on its importance for conservation and economic development. He said that the challenge lies in ensuring that ethical practices are upheld, and that the benefits of hunting, such as employment, conservation funding, and community support, are clearly communicated. “With the right focus on responsible hunting, Namibia’s hunting sector can continue to be a leader in conservation efforts while supporting the livelihoods of many people.”

Ethical hunting critical for conservation efforts

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-15

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Ethical hunting critical for conservation efforts

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Namibian Sun 2025-05-15

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