The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge hosted a reception on behalf of the Queen at Buckingham Palace on Monday evening to mark the day’s UK-Africa Investment Summit, also joined by the Earl and Countess of Wessex and Anne, Princess Royal.
During the reception, Prince William spoke of his love for the African continent, including an adorable anecdote about his proposal to Duchess Catherine almost 10 years ago.
Addressing the reception William said: “The African continent holds a very special place in my heart.
“It was the place my father took my brother and me shortly after my mother died.
“And when deciding where best to propose to Catherine, I could think of no more fitting place than Kenya to get down on one knee,” he said with a smile.
Of course, at the time, he proposed with his late mother’s iconic blue Ceylon sapphire and diamond ring.
Catherine looked breathtaking in red at Monday evening’s reception. (Image: Getty)
He continued, “Throughout my life, I have been lucky enough to spend time in many other parts of Africa.
“I’m also honoured to be the Patron of the Royal African Society and as Catherine and I have said to several of you here tonight we hope to have a chance to visit many more countries in the future and share our mutual love of your continent with our children.”
Duchess Catherine looked resplendent in a sheer and sequinned gown by Needle & Thread worn with matching suede pumps for the special event with her hair styled in elegant waves while Prince William looked dapper in a dark blue suit and burgundy tie.
Countess Sophie, who was also celebrating her 55th birthday, also opted for red looking elegant in an Alaia dress with capped sleeves.
Prince Edward and Countess Sophie, who also happened to be celebrating her 55th birthday. (Image: Getty)
Earlier in the day, The Duke of Sussex stepped out to attend the Summit, meeting with leaders from Malawi, Mozambique and Morocco to talk about investment in renewable energy, jobs, tourism and environmental issues.
As with Prince William, the African continent holds an incredibly special place in Harry’s heart previously saying it during his time visiting countries across Africa that he was able to heal after the tragic loss of his mother, calling it his ‘second home’.
And, as recently revealed, years before meeting Meghan he reportedly confessed to royal reporter Rebecca English about wishing he could walk away from royal life, move to Africa and become a tour guide.
Following the summit, the prince has reportedly flown from the UK to Canada to be reunited with Meghan and Archie, with the past couple of weeks has been the longest Harry has been away from his family.
