Chad has reinstated its management agreements with the conservation organization African Parks, which includes a board member, Prince Harry. This development marks a reversal of a decision made just last week to sever ties with the organization. Both Chad’s Environment Ministry and African Parks announced that they engaged “in a spirit of dialogue and cooperation” to restore the agreements “with full effect.” This collaboration will facilitate negotiations for new partnership agreements concerning significant conservation areas such as Zakouma National Park, the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, and the proposed Aouk project.
The renewed agreements allow African Parks to continue financing and co-managing protected areas in Zakouma and Ennedi. Additionally, the organization will advance work on the Aouk project until new agreements are finalized. The statement from both parties emphasizes their commitment to ongoing conservation efforts in Chad.
Last week, Chad’s government announced the termination of African Parks’ management and financing agreements. This decision was attributed to a resurgence in poaching, insufficient investment, and alleged breaches of contract. Following this announcement, African Parks expressed its intention to engage in discussions with the Chadian government to address these concerns.
The European Union’s delegation to Chad issued a statement last week indicating that it had suspended the implementation of grant-funded actions for at least 90 days due to “force majeure.” This suspension followed the environment minister’s move to terminate the management agreements with African Parks. The EU urged African Parks to protect EU-funded infrastructure, equipment, and vehicles, which may be transferred in the future. Furthermore, the EU requested updates on discussions with Chadian authorities to evaluate the contractual implications of the recent decisions.
African Parks manages a network of parks across a dozen African countries, focusing on conservation and sustainable tourism. The organization has been instrumental in various initiatives aimed at preserving wildlife and natural habitats in Chad and beyond.
The renewed partnership between Chad and African Parks highlights the importance of collaboration in addressing conservation challenges. As both parties move forward with negotiations for new agreements, the future of conservation efforts in Chad remains a key priority.
