Africa – Serious accusations have been made against the conservation organization African Parks: rangers are alleged to have “raped and tortured” indigenous peoples. Prince Harry is, therefore, coming under increasing pressure and is now expected to distance himself from the charity.
The Duke of Sussex had been closely linked for years to the organization that now manages 24 protected areas in 13 African countries.
As The Sun reported, there were initial indications about two years ago that African Parks had funded rangers accused of human‑rights abuses against indigenous communities.
The accusations center on incidents in Odzala‑Kokoua National Park. Park rangers are alleged to have beaten, tortured, and raped members of the Baka people there.
A Baka representative said, “The way the African Parks treat us here is violent.”
An investigation commissioned by African Parks itself in May 2025 also concluded that human‑rights violations had occurred.
After the abuse came to light, the organization pledged to strengthen cooperation with Congolese human‑rights groups.
Last week, Survival International – an organization that advocates for the rights of indigenous peoples – called on Prince Harry to step down from his board position at African Parks because of the alleged ongoing misconduct.
In a recent statement, it was said that the problems on the ground remain unresolved.
The organization also criticized the 41-year-old royal’s participation in a recent fundraising event where African Parks attempted to raise additional donations.
“It is outrageous to see Harry’s continued support to African Parks despite the horrific human rights abuses committed by its rangers against the Baka,” said a spokesperson for Survival International.
Representatives for Harry point to a statement from African Parks dated May 2025.
In it, they noted that measures would be taken in Odzala against staff involved in previously unknown incidents or where known cases had not been adequately addressed – provided that sufficient evidence exists.
