Chad ends ties with Prince Harry’s African parks
Chad Withdraws Mandate from African Parks
Chad Withdraws Mandate from African Parks
The government of Chad has rescinded the mandate of African Parks, a conservation group, to manage its wildlife reserves. The decision was attributed to the group's inadequate efforts in combating poaching. Environment Minister Hassan Bakhit Djamous cited a lack of investment and a resurgence in poaching in the reserves managed by the organization.
Government's Position and Future Plans
African Parks has expressed its intention to engage in discussions with the Chadian government to understand their position better and explore ways to continue supporting the protection of critical conservation landscapes.
This decision marks the end of a 15-year collaboration between the Chadian government and African Parks. The partnership focused on anti-poaching initiatives and the restoration of elephant populations in the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve and the Greater Zakouma Ecosystem, which includes the Zakouma and Siniaka-Minia national parks.
Chad Withdraws Mandate from African Parks The government of Chad has rescinded the mandate of African Parks, a conservation group, to manage its wildlife reserves.
Under African Parks' management, the elephant population at Zakouma National Park increased from 450 in 2010 to over 550 by 2019.
Founded in 2000, African Parks has developed a reputation for effective management of wildlife areas by assuming day-to-day operations. The organization aims to enhance efficiency and accountability in conservation efforts, addressing the challenges of poaching and habitat depletion. Many partner nations face difficulties in independently managing parks due to issues such as poverty, corruption, and conflict.
Prince Harry, a British royal, is a member of the board and a former president of African Parks.
Earlier this year, African Parks acknowledged human rights abuses committed by guards at a national park in the Republic of Congo, concerning the displacement of Indigenous peoples.
Despite the recent developments, African Parks' management agreement for the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve was renewed in April.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
