Amidst a backdrop of disturbing allegations against African Parks, Prince Harry faces increasing pressure to step down from his influential role.

Reports of human rights abuses linked to African Parks involving Prince Harry have surfaced, casting a shadow over his involvement with the organization.

Prince Harry's journey with African Parks began in 2016, culminating in his appointment to the Board of Directors in 2023. This prestigious environmental group, tasked with managing 22 national parks across Africa, is now at the center of grave human rights allegations.

Human Rights Concerns Shake African Parks

The Mail on Sunday's investigative report has brought to light allegations of abuse perpetrated by African Parks' rangers. These include claims of rape, beatings, and torture inflicted upon the indigenous Baka people in the Republic of Congo's Odzala-Kokoua National Park.

Particularly alarming is the alleged death of a Baka man post-detention and beating, alongside reports of a woman sexually assaulted by a guard. The lack of clarity on the timeline of these alleged abuses only adds to the growing concern.

Survival International, a group advocating for tribal peoples' rights, brought these issues to Prince Harry's attention in May 2023. Despite his assurance to escalate the concerns, tangible updates remain elusive.

African Parks' Response Amidst Crisis

In response to these accusations, African Parks has issued a statement underscoring its zero-tolerance policy towards abuse. The organization has also noted the initiation of an investigation into the matter.

Their statement, however, hints at a lack of cooperation from certain quarters, further complicating the issue. This situation places Prince Harry, a prominent figure on the board, in an increasingly uncomfortable position.

Prince Harry's journey with African Parks has been marked by notable milestones, including his rise to the position of president in 2017 and his subsequent board membership. These roles have undoubtedly increased his influence within the organization.

A timeline of involvement and controversy

The timeline of events underscores the gravity of the situation. Harry's involvement with African Parks has spanned several years, with key moments like his wedding in 2018, where Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks, was a guest.

The recent revelation of abuses allegedly taking place under the watch of African Parks has cast a shadow over these years of association. However, the timeline of these abuses remains shrouded in ambiguity, raising questions about the extent and duration of these alleged incidents.

Fiore Longo of Survival International expressed disappointment in the lack of action following their initial outreach to Prince Harry. Her words reflect the growing frustration among human rights advocates.

Fiore Longo remarked, "He said he took it seriously, but it didn’t achieve the change we had hoped to see. Then, very disappointingly, we learnt that Harry had joined the board of directors."

Voices from the Baka community

The Baka people, indigenous to the region, have expressed distress over the situation. Eyaya, a Baka man, described a harrowing change like their forest, now associated with torture rather than being a source of sustenance.

Eyaya lamented, "The eco-guards are stopping us from going into the forest... Now there is only torture in the forest."

This statement vividly illustrates the fear and trauma experienced by the Baka community, allegedly at the hands of African Park rangers. It raises serious concerns about the treatment of indigenous populations in the name of conservation.

Lessons to learn from this tragedy

1. The importance of accountability in conservation efforts: This situation highlights the need for stringent oversight and accountability within organizations managing natural resources and protecting wildlife.

2. The significance of indigenous rights: The allegations underscore the necessity of respecting and protecting the rights of indigenous peoples, who are often the most directly impacted by conservation policies.

3. The role of prominent figures in advocacy: The involvement of figures like Prince Harry brings attention to issues and demands a high level of responsibility and action when faced with such allegations.

4. Transparency in investigations: Ensuring transparent and thorough investigations into human rights abuses is crucial for maintaining public trust and justice. It's imperative to remember that despite all precautions, crimes can occur, and victims should never be blamed.

Why this story matters

This story is significant as it brings to the forefront the complex intersection of human rights, environmental conservation, and the responsibilities of public figures. It challenges us to reconsider our approach to conservation, ensuring it is both effective and humane. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for transparency and accountability in the activities of influential organizations and individuals. Lastly, it reminds us of the ongoing struggle of indigenous peoples for their rights and dignity in the face of global environmental policies.

• Prince Harry faces calls to resign from African Parks amidst allegations of human rights abuses.
• African Parks, managing 22 national parks, is accused of abuses against the Baka people in the Republic of Congo.
• Survival International raised concerns with Prince Harry, who has yet to provide an update on actions taken.
• African Parks asserts a zero-tolerance policy for abuse, emphasizing an ongoing investigation.