Royston Wright, a devoted conservationist and stalwart of sustainable hunting, passed away unexpectedly on 4 February 2024, leaving behind a legacy of education, passion and commitment to Namibia’s wildlife. For over 20 years, Royston made an indelible mark on the conservation and hunting community through his work with SCI International, SCI Alaska, the Namibia Tourism Board and the Namibia Professional Hunting Association (NAPHA). As a proud and active member of NAPHA, Royston served in numerous leadership roles, including Vice President, Chairman of the NAPHA Education Committee and leader of the NAPHA Leopard Specialist Group. His contributions to the NAPHA Executive Committee further underscored his dedication to the organisation and its principles.
Royston’s greatest passion was sharing his knowledge and instilling a love for conservation in the next generation. His vision culminated in the establishment of the NAPHA School of Conservation, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at educating aspiring hunters, trackers, skinners and guides in sustainable practices. Held annually at Farm Okatjeru, these courses have become a cornerstone of professional hunting education in Namibia. Royston’s efforts ensured that students not only gained technical expertise but also developed a deep respect for wildlife and the principles of ethical hunting. The school remains a testament to his unwavering belief in education as the foundation for preserving Namibia’s natural heritage.
Royston’s wife Charmaine and his son Dylan have taken up his mantle with remarkable dedication. Together with the loyal staff at Okatjeru they continue to champion the values he held dear. Charmaine and Dylan are steadfast in their commitment to conservation education, ensuring that the training programs Royston pioneered thrive and expand. Their work not only honours his memory but also reinforces the importance of sustainable hunting and wildlife preservation in Namibia.
Though Royston is deeply missed, his legacy endures in the hearts of those he inspired and through the ongoing efforts of his family. Charmaine and Dylan remain dedicated to ensuring that Royston’s vision of conservation, education and ethical hunting continues to shape future generations, preserving Namibia’s wildlife and natural beauty for years to come.
From the 2025 issue of Huntinamibia
Every accolade credited to Africa is well earned. Perhaps William Burchell’s thought most accurately sums them all up: “Nothing but breathing the air of Africa, and actually walking through it, can communicate the indescribable sensations.” Words are a paltry attempt to raise images of buffalo charging out of the reeds or burning sunsets beyond brilliance in the minds of those who have not been favoured to set foot on the continent.
For fifty years, the Namibia Professional HuntersAssociation (NAPHA) has stood as a beacon of ethical hunting, conservation and community. This golden anniversary marks a significant milestone on a journey defined by dedication to the land, respect for wildlife and the preservation of Namibia’s unique hunting heritage.
An opportunity arose to hunt a trophy lion in the Torra Conservancy in north- western Namibia. For the past years the lion population had grown in this area and the human-wildlife conflict increased as a result. The Ministry of Environment and Tourism invited professional hunters to the opportunity to hunt these problem animals, rather than taking the risk that entire prides are poisoned by communal farmers who lose their livestock.
