Namibia generates about N$400 million each year through trophy hunting, with many hunters coming from Texas in the United States (US).
According to the Namibia Tourism Board’s spokesperson, Flora Quest, the costs depends on factors such as demand for game species and international market trends.
Quest says trophy hunting alone accounts for about 14% of the country’s tourism sector, translating to approximately 2.3% of Namibia’s gross domestic product.
“In terms of annual revenue, trophy hunting generates substantial income for Namibia, with the sector contributing approximately N$200 to N$400 million annually”.
Trophy hunting is the act of killing an animal for sport or pleasure to display its body parts as a trophy. The trophy can be the animal’s head, horns, antlers, teeth, hide or the entire body.
Some of the animals hunted in Namibia include kudu, black wildebeest and gemsbok.
Quest says trophy hunting provides direct and indirect jobs in various sectors, including conservation, hospitality, logistics and the retail sector.

“While precise percentages can vary, estimates suggest that the sector supports a notable portion of employment in Namibia, especially in rural areas where alternative sources of income may be limited. Employment related to hunting and its associated industries is an essential source of livelihood for many communities,” she says.
GLOBAL MARKETS
More than 30 Namibian outfitters attended the 2025 Dallas Safari Club Convention (DSC) in Atlanta in the US, which offered access to outfitters and firearms, optics vendors and an opportunity for business ventures.
The DSC convention took place from 8 to 12 January. In attendance were the Namibian ambassador to the United States, Margaret Mensah-Williams, as well as officials from the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) and the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.
According to Quest, the event is beneficial for the country’s tourism and diplomatic relationships.
“Namibia’s participation in international events, such as the [DSC] in Atlanta, is highly beneficial for the country’s tourism and diplomatic relationships. By having a booth and showcasing Namibia’s attractions, the tourism board not only increases awareness of the country as a travel destination but also strengthens bilateral ties with other nations,” says Quest.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES
Robert Braubach, Namibia’s honourary consul in Texas in the US, this week said Texas and Namibia have similar economies, based on agriculture, minerals, large open ranch areas, cattle and hunting – all of which are important industries.
“Many Texan hunters travel to Namibia because there are direct air flights from Frankfurt. It is easy to get a rifle permit at the airport, and trophy fees on game are reasonable and less expensive than in South Africa and Zambia. And [hunters] appreciate the importance of ethical hunting to support conservation,” he said.
“Tourism is an important sector of the Namibian economy. Namibia benefits from offering fair chase hunts and conservation of wildlife in Namibia, and Texan hunters enjoy the experience of a lifetime, and continue to return to Namibia as their favourite country to visit in southern African. These trips can lead to the hunter doing business in Namibia and the purchase of game farms and other real estate in Namibia,” he said.
VITAL FOR CONSERVATION
Last year, The Namibian reported that tourism minister Pohamba Shifeta said trophy hunting is vital for conservation, sustainable development and ecosystem preservation across southern Africa.
“When properly managed and regulated, trophy hunting provides vital economic incentives that empower local communities and private landowners to become active stewards of their natural resources,” Shifeta said.
Stay informed with The Namibian – your source for credible journalism. Get in-depth reporting and opinions for
only N$85 a month. Invest in journalism, invest in democracy –
Subscribe Now!