Prince Harry has arrived in Africa for a whirlwind two-day visit to Zambia, while his pregnant wife Duchess Meghan rests at home.
Awaiting the 34-year-old at Lusaka Airport was nine-year-old Jane, who presented Harry with a bunch of flowers as a traditional welcome ceremony began.
Harry’s visit was only announced last week. News that Duchess Meghan would not be joining her husband raised a few eyebrows as Africa holds a special meaning to the newlyweds; it is widely believed the pair fell in love while on a trip to Botswana.
However, concerns over the Zika virus is believed to be the reason for Meghan opting out of the visit, as reported by The Sun.
Prince Harry attends a reception at The British High Commission in Lusaka Zambia.
At the end of his first day, Prince Harry attended a reception at the British High Commission, where he delivered a speech referencing the close economic ties between the UK and Zambia.
“Britain is Zambia’s oldest relationship. It is one that has thrived over the past 54 years, and it continues to evolve – from the UK’s development assistance, to growing mutually beneficial trade and investment.
“The British Chamber of Commerce is exemplary of that. The chamber, working together with the British High Commission, has launched an effort to contribute to Zambia’s economic development – making it easier to do business in Zambia, and encouraging more British companies to trade and invest here.”
To conclude his tour, Harry will also visit Bongo Hive, Zambia’s first technology and innovation hub. The organisation provides a range of startup and tech programmes, workshops and events all focused on making Zambia Africa’s next hotbed of innovation.
He will visit Burma Barracks to attend an event commemorating WWI and WWII Zambian veterans, and will also attend events in honour of the Queen’s Commonwealth Trust, of which he is President. The Trust champions, funds and connects young leaders who are leading social purpose ventures around the world.
