Prince Harry has turned cover star for the up-market Town & Country magazine, sharing a fascinating insight into his work with endangered elephants in southern Africa and the loss of his mother, Princess Diana.
The young royal recently spent three weeks in Malawi, helping to save 500 endangered elephants from poachers in one of the largest elephant translocations ever.
In the article, Harry talked at length about the special affinity he has developed for Africa since the death of his mother, Princess Diana.
The first time Harry visited the country was just a few months after she was tragically killed in a car crash.
“My dad told my brother and me to pack our bags – we were going to Africa to get away from it all,” he said. “My brother and I were brought up outdoors. We appreciate nature and everything about it. But it became more…”
“This is where I feel more like myself than anywhere else in the world. I wish I could spend more time in Africa. I have this intense sense of complete relaxation and normality here. To not get recognised, to lose myself in the bush with what I would call the most down-to-earth people on the planet, people [dedicated to conservation] with no ulterior motives, no agendas, who would sacrifice everything for the betterment of nature… I talk to them about their jobs, about what they do. And I learn so much.”
The mission saw the prince join many expertly-trained conservationists move the mighty animals using tranquilizer darts before taking them on a 725km trip.
Credit: Kensington Palace
The prince had a refreshing view on the danger he faced.
“I’ve done this a few times before,” he explained. “Also, I’m fatalistic. If something is going to happen to you, it will happen. And I have such a respect for wild animals that it’s a privilege to be around them. Plus, the army taught me teamwork.”
Prince Harry has certainly found a kindred spirit in girlfriend Meghan Markle, who clearly shares an affinity for non-profit work. The Suits actress recently visited Rwanda as an ambassador for World Vision.
Credit: World Vision Canada
