The Government of Chad cuts ties with Prince Harry’s African Parks following accusations of negligence in curbing poaching and disrespect towards state authorities. The decision marks the end of a 15-year collaboration between Chad and the nonprofit conservation group, which oversaw the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem and the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, two of the country’s most important protected areas. In addition to casting doubt on the group’s ability to conserve effectively, the action raises more doubts about Prince Harry’s environmental activism throughout Africa.

Allegations of Mismanagement and Disrespect

Chad’s Environment Ministry issued a formal statement charging African Parks with acting in a manner that was “arrogant and disrespectful” toward government entities. It said that the organization did not invest enough to stop a revival of poaching and did not work effectively with national authorities. The ministry provided these justifications for terminating the contract, which had granted African Parks management of the parks since 2009.

Key points include:

• Failure to reduce poaching: Despite the charity’s long history, authorities noted a rise in illicit hunting activities.
• Lack of cooperation and transparency: According to officials, African Parks often avoided involving local authorities in key management decisions.
• Insufficient funding and engagement: The government contended that a lack of expenditure caused the decline in wildlife preservation initiatives.

The Government of Chad cuts ties with Prince Harry’s African Parks, following similar controversies faced by the organisation elsewhere. African Parks acknowledged earlier this year that several staff members in the Republic of the Congo had mistreated residents in a park under its control. However, the charity came under heavy criticism from human rights organizations for refusing to release the complete results of an independent investigation into the claims.

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Prince Harry’s Role and Broader Implications

Before joining the board of directors in 2023, Prince Harry was president of African Parks for six years, beginning his involvement with the organization in 2016. Established in 2000, the organization purports to support sustainable conservation while overseeing over 20 million hectares of protected territory in 12 African nations. It has well-known benefactors like the European Union, Rob Walton, Walmart’s heir, and Howard Buffett, Warren Buffett’s son.

The charity has a robust network and substantial funds, reportedly exceeding $500,000 per year, but recent setbacks have damaged its reputation. The Government of Chad cuts ties with Prince Harry’s African Parks, not only challenging the organisation’s credibility but also adding another blow to Prince Harry’s philanthropic image. After a well-publicized argument with the chairwoman of Sentebale, another of his longstanding charities, earlier this year, he resigned as its patron.

“In talks with the ministry to understand the government’s position and explore the best way forward,” according to African Parks. The incident, however, highlights the escalating conflicts over responsibility, sovereignty, and the fair management of natural resources between African countries and international conservation organizations.

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