Prince Harry is leading a new initiative focused on fostering prosperity in Southern African communities, particularly among young people. His charity organization, Sentebale, co-founded with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006, will bring together world business leaders and philanthropists for meetings and discussions in Lesotho and Johannesburg in early October.
This will mark Harry’s first visit to Southern Africa since 2019, demonstrating his ongoing dedication to philanthropy in the region in honor of his late mother, Princess Diana. The Duke of Sussex and the leaders will collaborate with local organizations and companies already working on solutions to the challenges facing young people in the region.
Through their extensive work and relationships with local communities, Sentebale has gained a deep understanding of the local youth, their aspirations, concerns, and creativity. Despite the progress made, significant barriers still hinder young people from realizing their potential in the region.
Initially established to assist children and youth affected by HIV/AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana, Sentebale now addresses broader issues impacting young people, such as healthcare, wealth disparity, and climate change. The charity’s name, meaning ‘forget-me-not’ in Sesotho, honors the memory of their late mothers.
The upcoming session, following a previous meeting in Miami, will include private work sessions, a panel discussion, and a site visit to Lesotho. Sentebale Board Chair Sophie Chandauka highlighted the urgent need for investment in digital skills, education, and job creation to empower economically vulnerable young people in the region.
Prince Harry’s involvement in humanitarian and philanthropic events during the United Nations General Assembly Week precedes the announcement of this new initiative. The collaboration of global organizations and local leadership signifies a significant step towards engaging with and supporting the critical youth population in Southern Africa.
