African Parks, which managed Zakouma and Ennedi for 15 years, will resume managing these parks and will maintain its financing and co-management roles.

The initial termination of African Parks' mandates was driven by concerns over increased poaching, under-investment, and alleged contract breaches, which Chad cited as reasons for ending their partnership.

Chad and African Parks are now engaged in negotiations to renew their management agreements for Zakouma National Park, the Ennedi Natural and Cultural Reserve, and the planned Aouk project, with African Parks set to resume its roles once new deals are finalized.

Until the negotiations conclude, African Parks will continue its current management and funding responsibilities in these areas.

The situation highlights ongoing challenges in conservation management and international cooperation in Chad, with African Parks operating across multiple African countries.

The Chad government criticized African Parks earlier this year for insufficient investment to combat poaching and accused the organization of disrespectful behavior and poor cooperation.

Following the initial decision to terminate agreements, the European Union suspended grant-funded actions in Chad and is monitoring the situation, including safeguarding EU-financed infrastructure.

The EU has called on African Parks to protect EU-funded infrastructure during ongoing negotiations after suspending its aid due to the contract disputes.

Founded in 2000, African Parks aims to conserve Africa’s national parks and has faced criticism earlier this year over employee misconduct in the Republic of Congo.

Chad officially terminated its agreement with African Parks on October 6, but the partnership has now been reinstated after negotiations.

This reconciliation marks a significant step forward, with African Parks CEO Peter Fearnhead emphasizing the importance of protecting Chad’s landscapes and communities.

The renewal of the partnership follows a period of tension and previous accusations of failing to control poaching and other issues.

Chad has reversed its decision to sever ties with African Parks, including the organization linked to Prince Harry, and has reinstated its management agreements.