Namibia Hunting Body Denies Blocking Global Participation

NAPHA says international event rules apply equally to all exhibitors.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 6:36am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA) has rejected claims that individuals or groups were excluded from participating in events related to the hunting sector. NAPHA President Hannes du Plessis stated that set international rules govern participation at events like the Dallas Safari Club, which apply equally to all registered exhibitors who have paid for booth space.

Why it matters

The hunting industry in Namibia is an important economic and conservation driver, with NAPHA playing a key role in policy, training, and supporting initiatives. Allegations of exclusion could undermine trust and cooperation within the sector.

The details

Du Plessis said NAPHA follows the same approach internally and does not allow members to share booth space for commercial purposes, as this is about 'fairness towards those who invest significantly in building their presence over time.' He stated that members of NETHO were not excluded from attending the Dallas Safari Club, but were present, supported, and given access to the convention, with the Namibia Tourism Board facilitating flights, accommodation, and meals.

  • NAPHA made the statement on Friday, March 31, 2026.

The players

Hannes du Plessis

The president of the Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA).

Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA)

The association that represents the trophy hunting sector in Namibia and works with the government on wildlife policy and conservation.

Dallas Safari Club

An international hunting event where NAPHA members participate as registered exhibitors.

Namibia Tourism Board (NTB)

The organization that facilitated flights, accommodation, and meals for NETHO members to attend the Dallas Safari Club event.

NETHO

A group that was allegedly denied participation in the Dallas Safari Club event, according to recent commentary.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Participation at such shows is governed by strict international rules, and only registered exhibitors who have paid for stand space may market or sell services.”

— Hannes du Plessis, NAPHA President

“They were present at the Dallas Safari Club, supported in their participation, and given access to the convention, with NTB facilitating and funding flights, accommodation, and meals.”

— Hannes du Plessis, NAPHA President

“To now suggest that participation was blocked does not reflect the full picture.”

— Hannes du Plessis, NAPHA President

The takeaway

NAPHA's response aims to clarify that participation in international hunting events is governed by established rules that apply equally to all exhibitors, and that claims of exclusion do not reflect the full support and access provided to stakeholders like NETHO. This underscores the association's commitment to fairness and transparency within the hunting sector.