Prince Harry Faces Fresh Pressure As Charity Demands Exit From African Parks Board

Prince Harry has found himself at the centre of a growing controversy after a prominent indigenous rights organisation publicly called on him to step down from his position on the board of African Parks.

The Duke of Sussex, who has long championed conservation and environmental causes, received the difficult news as scrutiny surrounding the organisation continues following allegations of serious wrongdoing connected to its operations in Africa.

Harry became involved with African Parks in 2016, initially supporting the organisation through conservation work before later becoming its President. In 2023, he accepted a position on the board of directors, further strengthening his connection to the charity.

The latest criticism comes from Survival International, an organisation that advocates for the rights of indigenous peoples around the world. The group argues that Prince Harry should reconsider his role due to concerns surrounding allegations linked to African Parks operations.

According to reports, African Parks has faced increasing pressure following an independent investigation conducted by law firm Omnia Strategy. The review examined allegations involving eco guards working within protected areas managed by the organisation.

In May 2025, African Parks acknowledged that serious human rights abuses had occurred involving some rangers operating in areas under its management. Allegations reportedly included physical violence and sexual abuse against members of the indigenous Baka community living near protected land in the Republic of the Congo.

The revelations sparked widespread concern among human rights advocates and conservation groups. Critics also questioned the decision to keep the full investigation report confidential rather than releasing all findings to the public.

African Parks manages national parks and conservation areas across 13 countries in Central, Southern, Eastern, and Western Africa. The organisation has earned international recognition for wildlife protection efforts while also working with local communities surrounding the parks.

However, concerns have also emerged regarding its operations in Chad, where authorities temporarily suspended the organisation’s management mandate amid allegations involving financial irregularities and unexplained wildlife deaths. Operations were later reinstated.

Survival International insists that significant problems remain unresolved despite the organisation’s public commitments to reform. The charity’s director, Caroline Pearce, criticised continued support for African Parks while allegations involving indigenous communities remain under investigation.

The criticism has placed Prince Harry in a difficult position given his longstanding involvement with conservation projects across Africa. The Duke has frequently described the continent as deeply important to him both personally and professionally.

Earlier this week, Harry attended a fundraising event in Scottsdale, Arizona, where African Parks continued efforts to secure substantial funding for future conservation and community projects across the continent.

In response to ongoing criticism, African Parks stated that it has invested heavily in strengthening human rights protections within its operations. The organisation said independent human rights groups now provide reporting channels for local communities and oversee grievance procedures.

African Parks also highlighted the creation of an independent panel consisting of judges and human rights experts tasked with reviewing serious complaints and ensuring accountability when concerns are raised.

Representatives for Prince Harry referred inquiries to African Parks’ previous public statements regarding the investigation and corrective measures. The organisation has pledged to take action against any staff members found responsible where sufficient evidence exists.

Importantly, there is no allegation that Prince Harry was involved in, aware of, or connected to any of the alleged abuses. Nevertheless, calls for his resignation have intensified the spotlight on his role as African Parks works to address criticism and rebuild trust among affected communities.