Individual Category Winners:
Group Category Winners:
Each year at the Namibian Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA) Annual General Meeting the spotlight turns toward those who uphold the country’s proud hunting traditions through quiet dedication, skill and humility. The 2024 awards once again reminded the industry that the heartbeat of conservation and safari excellence lies not only with professional hunters but also with the men and women working alongside them – in the camps, the kitchens and in the wilderness.
The first accolade of the afternoon was presented by veteran professional hunter Kai-Uwe Denker, who took to the stage to pay tribute to a man he described as the “embodiment of reliability and quiet strength”.
Erastus Hashipala has been a core member of Denker’s team for the past twelve years – he is a trained hunting assistant, expert skinner, tracker and camp hand, who occasionally also lends a helping hand at Siggi Denker’s guesthouse. Known for his calm, composed demeanour, Erastus lets his work speak louder than words.
Kai-Uwe shared a memorable story from the past season near the Kuiseb River, where a late-afternoon gemsbok hunt turned into an overnight stay in the desert. With remarkable composure, Erastus processed the meat, built a wind shelter, kept the fire alive through the night, and prepared the liver over the coals – a traditional gesture that deeply impressed their international hunter, who later described the evening as a “five-star experience”.
“Erastus is more than a skilled assistant”, Denker concluded. “He is a man of great character – the kind of man who embodies the spirit of the Namibian wilderness.”
Introducing the next award, the Master of Ceremonies reminded guests that behind every seamless safari experience are the camp attendants – the steady hands who keep operations running smoothly. Ansie Strauss stepped forward to announce this year’s recipient, describing her as “the backbone of hospitality and the quiet force behind countless unforgettable client experiences”.
Veronica Matias joined Kowas Adventure Safaris in January 2022 as a student intern from the Nakayale Vocational Training Centre. Her dedication quickly earned her a permanent role by the end of that year. Today she serves as supervisor, chef, stock controller and trainer, setting high standards for service and mentoring her peers. Known for her attention to detail and deep care for guests, Veronica embodies the professionalism and warmth that define Namibian hospitality
The final award of the day celebrated a woman whose story is as rich and inspiring as the meals she prepares.
Hentie van Heerden delivered a touching tribute to Angela Gabriel, whose culinary journey began at age sixteen on a farm near Gobabis. Over the decades she has cooked in Namibia’s farthest corners – from the Khomas Hochland Mountains to Mahango National Park – first with Boet Nel Hunting Safaris, and for the past fifteen years with Ondjou Safaris.
A single mother of three, Angela has built a reputation for humility, resilience and excellence. Whether cooking over open fires or managing fly-camp kitchens, her grace and dedication have nourished hunters and guests alike.
From the 2026 issue of Huntinamibia
Namibia’s hunting community stands at a pivotal juncture. For five decades, professional hunters, trackers, operators, conservancies and rural partners have protected wildlife and ensured that land remains dedicated to conservation. Our model, grounded in ethical hunting and sustainable use, is recognised worldwide as one of the most successful conservation systems.
Hunting for me goes beyond the obvious, beyond the daily grind and the collecting of trophies. Even beyond the now hackneyed phrase of “collecting memories” ‒ something probably nobody can really define. Once you allow yourself as a hunter to actually and consciously take in moments and breathe in air,
We were kneeling in the hot sand. It was early April, yet the sun was burning down on us mercilessly. Poldi was sitting behind me. It was his second visit to Namibia and therefore he now knew that in Africa, too, the scorching heat and biting flies do come to
