Prince Harry’s Upcoming Visit to South Africa and Lesotho: A Philanthropic Mission
In early October, Prince Harry will embark on a significant journey to South Africa and Lesotho, accompanied by various delegates and representatives from Google’s charitable arm. This visit, organized by his charity Sentebale, aims to foster prosperity and support for young people in Southern Africa.
Sentebale’s Mission and History
Sentebale, co-founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006, has long been dedicated to improving the lives of children and young people in Lesotho and Botswana, particularly those affected by HIV/AIDS. Over the years, the organization has expanded its focus to address broader issues such as health, wealth inequity, and climate change¹.
The October Initiative
This October, Sentebale will bring together world business leaders, philanthropists, and local organizations for a series of meetings and discussions in Lesotho and Johannesburg. This gathering marks Prince Harry’s first visit to Southern Africa since 2019 and underscores his enduring commitment to the region, inspired by his late mother, Princess Diana.
Goals and Activities
The primary goal of this initiative is to brainstorm and implement solutions to the challenges faced by young people in Southern Africa. Prince Harry and the delegates will engage in private work sessions, panel discussions, and site visits to understand the local context better and collaborate on effective strategies¹².
Harry emphasized the importance of this mission, stating that Sentebale has developed a “profound understanding of local youth – their passions, their concerns, and their extraordinary creativity” through their extensive work and longstanding relationships with local communities. He believes that these young adults are eager and capable of driving meaningful change, yet significant barriers still stand in their way. The Role of Google’s Charitable Arm
Google’s charitable arm will play a crucial role in this initiative, bringing in expertise and resources to support digital skills, education, and job creation. This collaboration aims to address the economic vulnerabilities faced by over 50% of young people in the region.
A Milestone for Sentebale
As Sentebale approaches its 20th anniversary, this initiative represents a significant milestone in its journey. The organization’s name, meaning “forget-me-not” in the Sesotho language, reflects its commitment to remembering and supporting the most vulnerable populations².
Prince Harry’s return to Southern Africa, alongside global leaders and local partners, marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing effort to empower young people and create sustainable change in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates on this impactful visit and the outcomes of the collaborative efforts to support Southern Africa’s youth.
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This visit promises to be a landmark event in Prince Harry’s philanthropic journey, highlighting the power of collaboration and the importance of investing in the future of young people in Southern Africa.
