Journalist Olivier van Beenman has raised concerns about Prince Harry’s association with the conservation charity, African Parks, following allegations of abuse within the organization. The charity, which oversees national parks in several African countries, has been accused of using torture methods against poachers by current and former staff members. Olivier van Beenman’s investigation into the charity revealed shocking claims of abuse, prompting calls for Prince Harry to reconsider his role on the board of directors. The Duke of Sussex was initially named as the president of African Parks before being promoted to the board in 2023, and now shares responsibility for overseeing the organization’s policies and management practices.
The allegations against African Parks include claims of armed rangers using torture methods such as kampelwa, or “the swing,” to extract information from poachers. Former ranger Foster Kalunga described the abusive practices he witnessed during his time at the Zambia park, where he claimed that torture was used to force suspects to provide information. The organization denied these claims and stated that Kalunga had been dismissed for gross misconduct. Other staff members also alleged that the abusive tactics were influenced by instructors from other countries, further fueling concerns about the organization’s practices.
Author Olivier van Beenman’s book, “Entrepreneurs in the Wild,” highlighted the opaque nature of African Parks and the numerous human rights allegations made against them. The charity’s focus on a “business approach to conservation” raised questions about its governance and accountability. Additionally, the organization’s use of incentives such as bonuses for armed confrontations with poachers raised further concerns about its methods. Van Beemen called for Prince Harry and other board members to reevaluate their roles in light of these allegations, urging them to question the organization’s model and practices.
African Parks has faced scrutiny after confirming an investigation into claims of rape and torture by its guards in the Republic of Congo. The charity defended its operations, citing long-term agreements with sovereign governments and global institutions that require vetting processes. However, the troubling allegations of abuse and misconduct have cast a shadow over the organization’s conservation efforts. Prince Harry’s affiliation with African Parks has come under scrutiny, with calls for him to review his role given the serious nature of the allegations. The Duke of Sussex’s involvement with the charity could face further scrutiny as more details emerge about the extent of the abuse allegations.
The controversy surrounding African Parks and the allegations of abuse within the organization have raised questions about the effectiveness of its conservation efforts. The charity’s use of violent tactics and questionable practices have called into question its commitment to wildlife protection and preservation. Prince Harry’s association with African Parks has come under scrutiny, and the calls for him to step down from the board reflect broader concerns about the need for transparency and accountability in the conservation sector. As the investigation into the charity continues, the spotlight remains on the Duke of Sussex and his role in overseeing the organization’s policies and practices.
The allegations of abuse and misconduct within African Parks have sparked a wider conversation about ethical standards in conservation and the responsibilities of board members. Prince Harry’s position on the board of the charity has prompted calls for a reevaluation of his role and a reassessment of the organization’s governance. The Duke of Sussex’s involvement with African Parks, coupled with the serious nature of the allegations, has raised concerns about his oversight and accountability. As the controversy unfolds, the spotlight remains on Prince Harry and the need for greater transparency and scrutiny in the conservation sector.
