Prince Harry reunited with his longtime friend, Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, on Tuesday, October 1, where he delivered an impassioned speech around a bonfire about the impactful work their charity, Sentebale, has been doing.
On the first day of his trip—the first to the African nation in five years—Harry spoke before Prince Seeiso and youth leaders, highlighting the positive changes they’ve achieved in “breaking down stigma in this country and also in Botswana.”
“We’re meeting our targets, not just Sentebale but all the departments, and it’s making a significant difference. There’s a surge of energy and optimism coming from young people aged six to 25. However, we really need more effort to ensure that those at the top start listening,” he stated.
Harry’s connection to Lesotho began in 2004 when he spent two months there during his gap year. He founded Sentebale in 2006, at a time when one in three children in the country had lost a parent to HIV/AIDS-related illnesses.
Today, Sentebale operates in both Lesotho and Botswana, teaching vital life skills to children, promoting mental and physical well-being, and providing vocational training for young women.
The evening kicked off with performances from singers and dancers, following Harry’s arrival, where he warmly greeted Prince Seeiso and met with key figures such as Sentebale Board Chair Dr. Sophie Chandauka MBE, Lesotho Country Director Ntoli Moletsane, and Botswana Country Director K.T. Montshiwa.
Throughout the visit, the Duke plans to tour Sentebale centers to showcase the charity’s initiatives to new supporters and existing donors through American Friends of Sentebale. He will also engage with local leaders and youth advocates.
Additionally, Harry will participate in celebrations for Lesotho’s 200th anniversary and visit Johannesburg, South Africa, for a reception with local stakeholders and strategic partner Lebec, a women-led finance and philanthropy organization.
