Mvula rhino sculpture takes centre stage at Napha AGM

The Mvula rhino sculpture, an exquisite piece of art carved by Namibian artist Alfeus Mvula, will be a central feature at the upcoming 50th anniversary gala and auction of the Namibia Professional Hunting Association (Napha).

This special event, set to take place during Napha’s annual general meeting (AGM), will celebrate five decades of conservation hunting while providing a unique opportunity for members and attendees to support vital conservation efforts.

In 2017, the Hunters Support Against Poaching project, facilitated by Napha, brought together two talented sculptors, Gé Pellini from France and Alfeus Mvula from Namibia, to create rhino sculptures from marble.

These artists, each with their own distinct style and technique, transformed their marble blocks into powerful symbols of wildlife conservation.

While Pellini used modern power tools, Mvula relied on traditional hand tools, infusing his work with a sense of heritage and a deep connection to the Namibian landscape.

The Mvula rhino originally stood at the College of the Arts, but due to space constraints, it was relocated to the front of the FNB building on Independence Avenue in Windhoek, thanks to the support of RMB Namibia.

"This relocation serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of rhino conservation and the collaborative efforts needed to protect these magnificent creatures," Nampha said.

Highlight of the gala auction

The auction of the Mvula rhino will be one of the highlights of Nampha's 50th anniversary gala. The event, themed ‘Five Decades of Conservation Hunting,’ will bring together conservationists, hunters and supporters from around the world to celebrate Namibia’s rich wildlife heritage.

The proceeds from the auction will be used to support Mvula’s educational programmes for aspiring artists and Napha’s School of Conservation. This institution is dedicated to training Namibian hunters in sustainable, responsible and ethical wildlife management, ensuring that conservation principles are upheld for future generations.

Symbol of conservation and collaboration

According to Napha, the presence of the Mvula rhino in Windhoek's cityscape underscores the significant role that art plays in raising awareness about wildlife conservation.

"It also highlights the collaborative efforts of artists, conservationists and corporate entities in safeguarding Namibia's natural heritage."

The upcoming auction provides an opportunity for Napha members and other stakeholders to contribute directly to the conservation of Namibia’s wildlife through their support of the event.

Napha invites all its members and the wider community to participate in the auction at the AGM.

"By bidding on the Mvula rhino, you will not only acquire a beautiful piece of Namibian art but also contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect our country’s rhinos and promote sustainable hunting practices."

For more information about the auction and to view the Mvula rhino, please visit the auction page at https://auctions.swiftvee.com/auctions/50thnapha-gala-dinner-auction-kk0q.