Chad Ends Partnership with Wildlife Charity Tied to Prince Harry

Government accuses African Parks of arrogance and failure to curb poaching, ending 15-year conservation deal

The Chadian government has officially terminated its agreement with African Parks, a wildlife conservation charity that counts Prince Harry among its board of directors. Authorities accused the organisation of failing to prevent poaching and showing an “arrogant and disrespectful attitude” toward the government, ending a 15-year partnership that covered two major protected sites.

Government Cites Lack of Cooperation

In a strongly worded statement, Chad’s Environment Ministry said African Parks had not collaborated effectively with local authorities and had underinvested in park protection, resulting in a resurgence of poaching. The termination letter, issued by Environment Minister Hassan Bakhit Djamous, described the charity’s behaviour as “unacceptable” and signaled a complete withdrawal of management rights.

Charity Responds to the Decision

African Parks confirmed receiving the government’s notice, stating that it had “begun talks with the ministry to understand the government’s position and explore the best way forward.” The organisation expressed its desire to ensure that conservation efforts in Chad continue despite the disagreement, emphasising the ecological and cultural importance of the landscapes involved.

Projects Under African Parks’ Care

The decision affects two major conservation zones: the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve and the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem, which includes the Zakouma and Siniaka-Minia national parks. These are among the 22 protected areas in 12 African countries that African Parks

manages, covering over 20 million hectares of land.

Mounting Controversies for the Charity

This latest fallout adds to a string of controversies surrounding African Parks. Earlier in the year, the charity admitted that some of its employees in the Republic of Congo had abused local community members, but it refused to release the independent report investigating the incidents. The Chadian case further damages the organisation’s reputation, especially given its global partnerships and high-profile patrons.

Prince Harry’s Role in the Organisation

Prince Harry has been closely tied to African Parks since 2016, serving as president for six years before joining the board of directors in 2023. The charity lists major donors such as the European Union, Rob Walton (Walmart heir), and Howard Buffett, son of billionaire investor Warren Buffett. Despite its funding strength over $500,000 per year the group now faces questions about its management and accountability.

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A Blow to Harry’s Charitable Work

The development marks another setback for Prince Harry’s philanthropic efforts. Earlier this year, he resigned as patron of Sentebale, the charity he co-founded to support children orphaned by AIDS in Botswana and Lesotho, following a public boardroom dispute with chairwoman Dr. Sophie Chandauka.

Future of Conservation in Chad

With the end of its partnership with African Parks, Chad’s government will need to identify new ways to manage and protect its vast natural reserves. Officials insist the country remains committed to conservation but wants partnerships that respect national sovereignty and deliver tangible results in wildlife protection.

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