As Namibia faces the challenges of the current Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreak, the Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA) is calling on the international hunting community to stay informed, rely on accurate information and continue supporting the country’s hunting industry.

While the outbreak has led to restrictions affecting livestock movement and certain animal products, including trophy transport and exports, these measures do not prohibit trophy hunting. Hunting operations can continue in accordance with applicable regulations, although trophy shipments may take longer due to veterinary treatment, quarantine and export requirements.

Understanding the Current Restrictions

The distinction between restrictions on animal products and the continuation of hunting activities is important. Although veterinary measures may affect the movement and export of trophies, they do not mean that hunting operations must stop.

Hunters with existing bookings or plans to visit Namibia should remain in close contact with their hunting operators to understand how the current situation may affect their arrangements. They should also confirm the latest applicable veterinary, quarantine and export requirements before making any assumptions about trophy transport timelines.

Following the relevant regulations and veterinary guidance remains essential to managing the outbreak responsibly.

Why Continued Hunting Tourism Matters

Hunting tourism plays an important role in Namibia’s economy and conservation efforts. It provides income and employment for hunting operators, professional hunters, guides, trackers, landowners and rural communities.

At a time when the industry faces additional challenges, continued hunting tourism can help sustain these livelihoods and support the people and communities who depend on it. It also contributes to wildlife management and conservation in Namibia.

Unnecessary cancellations and decisions based on inaccurate information risk placing further economic pressure on an industry that already faces considerable challenges.

The Importance of Accurate Information

NAPHA recognises the seriousness of the FMD outbreak and the need to comply with all applicable veterinary measures. At the same time, clear and accurate communication is essential to ensure that the international hunting community understands what the restrictions mean in practice.

Misinformation or confusion about the situation can have consequences beyond individual hunting bookings, affecting operators, employees, rural communities and conservation initiatives that benefit from hunting tourism.

Responsible communication means acknowledging the challenges posed by the outbreak while distinguishing between the restrictions that are in place and the activities that can continue under the applicable regulations.

How Hunters Can Support Namibia

For hunters planning a trip to Namibia or holding an existing booking, the best approach is to remain informed and maintain direct communication with their hunting operator. Current veterinary and export requirements should be checked regularly, particularly where trophy shipments are concerned, as processing and transport may take longer than usual.

The international hunting community can also help by sharing accurate information and avoiding assumptions that all hunting activities have been suspended.

Namibia needs continued support, cooperation and responsible communication during this challenging period. By staying informed and working with local operators, hunters can help support the people, livelihoods and conservation efforts connected to the country’s hunting tourism industry.