RMB Namibia, in collaboration with Namibia Professional Hunters Association (NAPHA) and renowned local artist Alpheus Mvula, have unveiled a white marble rhino sculpture which is housed outside the FNB Parkside building in Independence Avenue in support of anti-poaching efforts.
The sculpture which was commissioned by NAPHA will be housed there temporarily until it finds a buyer. The funds will be split between the artist Alfeus and NAPHA. The proceeds earned by NAPHA will go towards the development of the school of conservation.
Speaking at the unveiling event held a few weeks ago, RMB Namibia Chief Executive officer (CEO, Philip Chapman, highlighted RMB’s long-standing involvement in rhino conservation.
“At RMB, we stand with rhino conservation and have made it a point to be involved with projects and people that share the same values. We apply our strategic thinking to forge strong partnerships to achieve sustainable conservation practices that benefit both our communities and wildlife” he said.
“In 2017, RMB housed a beautiful white marble rhino sculpture commissioned by HUAP (Hunters United Against Poaching) in collaboration with NAPHA (Namibian Professional Hunters Association), to show support for anti-poaching initiatives. RMB is proud to announce our involvement once again in a similar project where we house this magnificent sculpture for public viewing and enjoyment” Chapman explained.
Artist Alfeus Mvula expressed gratitude to both RMB and NAPHA for the initiative adding that the partnership strengthens Namibia’s ability to fight against rhino poaching and conserve them, especially the rhino species for future generations.
“I hope having my art in an open space like this inspires the community to get more involved in art and for other artists to also showcase their work and bring the art industry in Namibia to life. This beautiful project showcases how when the hearts of those who can make a difference are in the right place, businesses come together and create unity in confronting the issues we face in society” he said.
Moreover, RMB, NAPHA and Mvula all extended their gratitude to Anthony Hearn of AWH Rigging who sponsored the relocation of the sculpture from its former home, the College of the Arts, to its current home.