Chad Ends 15-Year Partnership with Conservation Charity Linked to Prince Harry
N’Djamena, Chad – Chad has terminated its agreement with African Parks, a conservation group with which Prince Harry is affiliated, citing disrespectful conduct and a rise in poaching. The decision marks the end of a 15-year partnership between the African nation and the non-profit organization.
Surroundings Minister Hassan Bakhit Djamous stated that African Parks demonstrated “a recurring indelicate and disrespectful attitude toward the government.” He also reported an increase in poaching activity and insufficient investment in the reserves managed by the group.
African Parks responded, saying they are “in talks to explore the best way forward to support the continued protection of these landscapes that are critical to conservation.”
The move comes after The Times reported allegations that the charity was insufficiently proactive in combating poaching. Established in 2000, African Parks aimed to reduce poaching and bolster elephant populations at Chad’s Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve and the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem.
Prince Harry, 41, currently serves as a board member of African Parks, having previously held the position of president. The charity recently acknowledged human rights violations committed by guards at one of its national parks against Indigenous people displaced by park establishment.
This development represents another challenge for the Duke of Sussex, following his earlier announcement stepping down from his co-founded charity, Sentebale. Sentebale’s chairman, Sophie Chandauka, alleged harassment and misogyny, leading to Prince Harry’s resignation as patron and the departure of several trustees.
The Express has reached out to representatives for both Prince Harry and African Parks for comment.
