Prince Harry in Angola: A Legacy of Courage, Compassion, and Continuity
On July 16, 2025, Prince Harry returned to Angola in a deeply symbolic and humanitarian mission that echoed the footsteps of his late mother, Princess Diana. Nearly three decades after Diana’s iconic walk through a minefield in Huambo, Harry donned a flak jacket and protective gear to walk through Africa’s largest minefield in Cuito Cuanavale — a gesture that was both personal and profoundly political.
A Presidential Welcome
Upon arrival in Luanda, Prince Harry was warmly received by Angola’s President João Lourenço. Their meeting wasn’t just ceremonial — it marked a renewed commitment to landmine clearance across the country. Together, they discussed a new three-year contract between the Angolan government and The HALO Trust, the British charity dedicated to demining efforts.
James Cowan, CEO of The HALO Trust, praised both leaders:
> “We are hugely grateful to President Lourenço for his leadership and to the Duke of Sussex for his personal commitment to HALO’s work in Angola.”
Following Diana’s Footsteps
Princess Diana’s 1997 visit to Angola helped catalyze global awareness and support for a landmine ban treaty. Her images walking through a minefield in protective gear became emblematic of humanitarian advocacy. Prince Harry’s return to the same region — now cleared and transformed — was a poignant tribute to her legacy.
Harry reflected:
“Children should never have to live in fear of playing outside or walking to school. Here in Angola, over three decades later, the remnants of war still threaten lives every day.”
Connecting with Locals and Children
In Cuito Cuanavale, Harry joined a children’s safety class, repeating life-saving phrases in Portuguese like “Stop, go back and tell your elders.” His interaction with local families and children was tender and sincere — a moment where the Duke slipped into “dad mode,” drawing from his own experience as a father to Archie and Lilibet.
He met families living near minefields, listened to their stories, and helped deliver vital messages about safety. The HALO Trust’s outreach program aims to protect these communities until every last mine is cleared.
A Speech of Purpose
Later that day, Harry attended a reception hosted by the British Embassy, where he spoke to business leaders and humanitarian partners. His speech, though closed to British media, emphasized the importance of global collaboration and Angola’s leadership in humanitarian risk reduction.
>“The Angolan government’s continued commitment is a powerful testament to HALO’s success in saving lives. We work together towards completing the mission of a landmine-free country.”
A Mission Beyond Royalty
This visit wasn’t just a royal engagement — it was a statement of purpose. Prince Harry’s solo trip, absent of media fanfare and royal entourage, was a quiet act of leadership. It highlighted his enduring commitment to humanitarian work, his respect for Angola’s resilience, and his devotion to continuing his mother’s legacy.
