The Chadian government has officially terminated its 15-year agreement with African Parks, a prominent conservation organization that counts Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, among its board members. The decision comes amid allegations that the charity failed to effectively combat poaching in two of Chad’s key protected areas: the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve and the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem, which includes Zakouma and Siniaka-Minia national parks. The government also accused African Parks of displaying an ‘arrogant and disrespectful attitude’ and insufficient cooperation with local authorities. In response, the charity stated it has initiated discussions with the environment ministry to understand the government’s stance and explore future conservation efforts. This development marks another setback for Prince Harry’s philanthropic endeavors, following his recent resignation from Sentebale, a charity he founded to support children orphaned by AIDS in Botswana and Lesotho. African Parks, established in 2000, manages over 20 million hectares of protected areas across 12 countries, aiming to ensure ecological, social, and financial sustainability. The organization has faced criticism in the past, including allegations of employee misconduct in the Republic of Congo and a refusal to publish an independent report on the matter. Despite its high-profile donors, including the European Union and heirs to the Walmart and Buffett fortunes, the charity now faces scrutiny over its effectiveness and governance.
