The N/a’an ku sê Wine Auction: A Night of Conservation and Community

N/a’an ku sê represents more than breathtaking ecotourism; it embodies a movement rooted in conservation and environmental stewardship. On 11 October 2024, at the fifth N/a’an ku sê Wine Auction, this mission was celebrated with supporters during an evening of reflection and purpose.

Bottling the Story

Since its inception in 2003, N/a’an ku sê has aimed to make a lasting impact on Namibia and beyond. At the 2024 auction, the founders reflected on their journey and the community they have built.

“The story will go on,” said Dr. Rudie van Vuuren, co-founder and Managing Director of N/a’an ku sê. “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.”

This year’s auction featured 20 exclusive wine bottles, each adorned with laser-engraved images of iconic Namibian wildlife, including lions, oryx, and leopards. These bottles symbolised the connection between N/a’an ku sê’s conservation efforts and the magnificent creatures they protect.

The wine, produced at Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate, exemplified quality and sustainability. Neuras Wines recently celebrated a Double Gold victory at the Michelangelo International Wine Awards 2024 for its signature Neuras Ruby Dessert Wine. This recognition underscores the winery's commitment to producing world-class wines reflecting Namibia's unique desert landscape.

Dr. van Vuuren expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate comes a very long way, and we are proud to share this with you.” The Ruby Dessert Wine, known for its rich complexity and elegant finish, embodies the harmonious integration of conservation and winemaking. Braam Gericke, the lead winemaker, noted, “Working in Namibia in a desert vineyard made me fall in love with wine all over again.”

More Than Ecotourism: A Commitment to Conservation

While N/a’an ku sê is renowned for its ecotourism experiences, its core mission extends beyond tourism. Each stay contributes to preserving Namibia’s unique ecosystems and supports wildlife conservation efforts, from rescuing injured animals to promoting sustainable practices in local communities.

During the auction, Dr. van Vuuren emphasised that N/a’an ku sê is about “being change-makers for sustainable good in Africa.” Funds raised would support these vital efforts, ensuring that Namibia’s wildlife and its people thrive together.

The N/a’an ku sê Collection offers guests a chance to be part of something bigger — a future where tourism helps preserve the environment rather than deplete it.

A Night to Remember

The wine auction, attended in person and online by participants from around the world, was a celebration of community and N/a’an ku sê's achievements. Guests contributed to the evening's energy, buzzing with excitement for the unique bottles on offer.

The laser-engraved bottles, featuring different Namibian animals, symbolised N/a’an ku sê’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

As the night concluded, glasses were raised, not just to the fine wine but to N/a’an ku sê’s ongoing mission. The auction marked another step in preserving Namibia’s wildlife and ecosystems for generations to come.