Chad’s Government restores partnership with African Parks, reversing termination decision to support Zakouma, Ennedi Conservation

CHAD – Chad’s government and African Parks have restored their partnership for delegated management of Zakouma National Park and the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, reversing the decision made on 6 October 2025 to end the arrangement over concerns about poaching and cooperation.

The joint statement issued on 17 October 2025 confirmed African Parks will continue financing and co-managing both sites while negotiating new agreements.

This reinstatement is expected to stabilise conservation operations and visitor services at these two of Chad’s flagship tourism assets.

It supports wildlife protection, community livelihoods, and market confidence in Chad’s tourism sector.

African Parks, which manages about 20 protected areas across 12 African countries and counts Prince Harry as a board member, described the move as providing a “stable foundation” to safeguard these vital landscapes, according to CEO Peter Fearnhead.

The decision delivers a positive resolution after a difficult period involving accusations from Chad’s government that African Parks had not adequately addressed poaching issues.

The government had criticized the organization for insufficient investment and lacking cooperation, which allegedly led to increased poaching incidents.

Since 2000, African Parks has focused on protecting Africa’s national parks and fostering sustainable conservation, working closely with communities to balance environmental and social benefits.

The renewed partnership signals Chad’s renewed commitment to international conservation collaboration, enhancing prospects for sustainable tourism development and biodiversity preservation.

Continued management by African Parks aims to strengthen anti-poaching measures, improve park infrastructure, and promote community engagement programs that link conservation to local economic development.

This restoration also improves market confidence in Chad’s protected areas as attractive tourism destinations and reinforces positive diplomatic ties supporting environmental sustainability across the region.

Both parties have expressed their dedication to finalizing new agreements that will lay the groundwork for long-term protection and prosperity of the Zakouma and Ennedi reserves.

Peter Fearnhead, CEO of African Parks, praised the restored partnership, stating, “Renewing our collaboration with Chad provides a strong foundation to protect these invaluable ecosystems.”

“Together, we will enhance wildlife conservation, support community livelihoods, and promote sustainable tourism, ensuring lasting benefits for the environment and people alike.”

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