Prince Harry has resigned from the board of African Parks, the wildlife conservation group, ahead of his planned return to the United Kingdom. The move marks his second departure from an Africa-focused charity in just over a year, according to a spokesperson who confirmed the news to The Independent.
The resignation comes amid ongoing fallout from a scandal that erupted last year when African Parks admitted that some of its rangers had committed human rights violations. One of the most serious allegations involved a guard accused of beating, raping, and torturing members of the Baka people living in Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo.
Despite stepping down, Harry's representative emphasized that he remains supportive of the organization's mission. "The Duke is proud of his 10 years with African Parks and fully supports the ongoing strengthening of its board," the spokesperson said. "His commitment to conservation in Africa continues, and he remains a supporter of African Parks' mission."
Harry had served as president of the organization for six years and joined its board of directors in 2023. His departure follows growing pressure from indigenous rights groups, including Survival International, which in May publicly urged him to resign after he attended a fundraiser for African Parks in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Survival International Director Caroline Pearce criticized Harry's continued association with the group, telling The Times: "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."
This latest resignation echoes his earlier exit from Sentebale, the charity he co-founded in Lesotho, which he left in March 2025 citing a breakdown in leadership. The charity's chair, Dr. Sophie Chandauka, accused the organization of fostering an abusive environment and alleged that Harry coordinated a campaign of bullying and harassment. Sentebale subsequently sued Harry and another trustee for defamation.
The pattern of departures raises questions about Harry's involvement with African charities as he prepares to relocate to the UK. While his spokesperson insists his commitment to conservation remains intact, critics argue that his continued support for African Parks conflicts with the organization's human rights record.
African Parks has pledged to address the allegations and strengthen oversight, but the scandal has cast a shadow over its reputation. For Harry, the resignation may be an attempt to distance himself from the controversy, though his ongoing support suggests he is not entirely severing ties.
As Harry navigates his return to the UK, his philanthropic portfolio appears to be shrinking, with his focus shifting away from the African continent where he once dedicated significant time and energy.
