Outgoing Napha president urges stronger push for ethical, sustainable hunting

Outgoing Namibia Professional Hunting Association (Napha) president Axel Cramer has urged the country’s hunting fraternity to continue placing ethical and sustainable hunting practices at the centre of their work, warning that Namibia’s global reputation as a responsible conservation-hunting nation depends on it.

Speaking at the 51st annual general meeting this week, where his successor will be announced, Cramer said Namibia remains a nation anchored in “peace, stability and unity” despite global uncertainty, conflict and division. This, he stressed, is not something to be taken for granted.

Turning to the hunting sector, Cramer said the past decade had been one of growth, lessons and milestones.

While the industry had experienced “moments of pride and moments of challenges, laughter, setbacks and progress”, one thing had remained constant: "The strength of Napha lies in its members," he said.

He cautioned that the association’s ability to serve the country and the conservation sector relies on collective engagement, unity and a steadfast commitment to professionalism. Ethical and sustainable hunting, he said, is not just part of Napha's mandate – it is the core of its identity.

“We carry a responsibility not only to our wildlife and landscapes but also to one another, given the reputation of Namibia as a responsible conservation hunting nation,” he said. Namibia’s landscapes, he added, are among the most remarkable on earth, and this privilege demands care, discipline and community-based stewardship.

Safeguard sustainable hunting

Cramer reminded members that the future of hunting in Namibia depends on adhering to principles that ensure long-term wildlife protection, ecosystem integrity and community involvement.

“Our continued success depends on mutual respect, a shared commitment to high standards and a strong sense of community where every member has a place,” he said.

Reflecting on his decade-long tenure, Cramer expressed gratitude for the association’s trust and resilience. “It has been a meaningful journey shaped by shared goodness, challenges which we overcame together and the steady commitment of our community.”