N/a’an ku sê wine auction- a night of conservation and community

The prestigious N/a’an ku sê wine auction, recently held in Windhoek, marked its fifth year of success, bringing together supporters from around the globe for an extraordinary evening dedicated to conservation and community.

According to sales and marketing director Gerhard Fourie at N/a’an ku sê, this remarkable event, which was held both in-person and online, highlighted the deep-rooted mission of N/a’an ku sê to protect Namibia’s unique wildlife and ecosystems while celebrating their achievements over the years.

The wine auction featured 20 exclusive, limited-edition bottles of wine produced at the renowned Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate.

Fourie said each bottle was a masterpiece, adorned with laser-engraved images of Namibia's iconic wildlife, including lions, oryx, and leopards – a symbolic reminder of N/a’an ku sê’s commitment to the animals and landscapes they tirelessly work to protect.

“We started writing this story in August 2003, and the people in this room became our first co-authors. As the years passed, more people joined in,” said Dr Rudie van Vuuren, co-founder and managing director of N/a’an ku sê, reflecting on the organisation’s journey from humble beginnings to an international beacon of conservation.

The Neuras Ruby Dessert Wine, recently awarded Double Gold at the Michelangelo International Wine Awards 2024, was the star of the evening.

Fourie said this wine, known for its rich complexity and elegant finish, represents the perfect harmony between winemaking and conservation, a philosophy embraced by Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate.

“Working in Namibia in a desert vineyard made me fall in love with wine all over again,” said lead winemaker Braam Gericke.

Beyond hospitality

While N/a’an ku sê is renowned for its luxurious ecotourism experiences, its core mission extends far beyond hospitality.

With every guest visit, funds are funnelled directly into vital conservation efforts, from rescuing and rehabilitating injured wildlife to empowering local communities through sustainable development.

“Our focus is on being change-makers for sustainable good in Africa,” Van Vuuren said.

“The funds raised during this auction will ensure that Namibia’s wildlife and its people thrive together, preserving the delicate balance of our ecosystems," he added.

The auction reflected N/a’an ku sê’s ongoing dedication to preserving Namibia’s wildlife for future generations, with guests rallying together to contribute toward these goals.

Life dedicated to wildlife, communities

Speaking about Marlice van Vuuren, Fourie said that as the co-founder and executive director of the N/a’an ku sê Foundation, she has dedicated her life to conserving Namibia’s landscapes, protecting its wildlife and uplifting the lives of local communities.

“Her tireless work has earned her global recognition, including a recent prestigious nomination at the WorldVets Awards, a testament to her commitment to animal welfare and conservation.”

Over the years, he said, she not only spearheaded groundbreaking conservation projects with Rudie but also made it her mission to ensure that humans and wildlife can coexist in harmony.

“Her leadership has seen N/a’an ku sê grow into a sanctuary for wildlife, a haven for research and education, and a beacon of hope for future generations.”

Fourie said the auction’s exclusive limited edition bottles and collectors edition wine sets, each one a testament to Namibia’s wild beauty, served as a reminder that every bid, every contribution, helps to protect the country’s natural heritage.

“We raised N$265 000 this evening. On behalf of Rudie, Marlice, N/a’an ku sê management, wildlife and local communities, we want to thank each person for their contribution tonight, said Fourie.