In a stunning turn of events, Prince Harry has resigned from Sentebale, the charity he co-founded in 2006 with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, amid allegations of harassment and internal conflicts that have plagued the organization. This decision, announced on March 25, 2025, comes in solidarity with the charity's board of trustees, all of whom also resigned following a breakdown of trust with the charity's chair, Dr. Sophie Chandauka.
Sentebale, which translates to "forget-me-not" in Sesotho, was established to support orphaned children in Lesotho and Botswana, particularly those affected by HIV and AIDS. The charity was founded in memory of Princess Diana, Harry's mother, and has been a significant part of his philanthropic efforts in Africa.
Chandauka, who took on the role of chair last year, has faced severe criticism from former trustees, who allege that her leadership has been marked by "bullying, harassment, misogyny, and misogynoir." Following her appointment, the relationship between her and the trustees deteriorated, leading to calls for her resignation. In response, Chandauka has filed a lawsuit against the trustees, claiming they are attempting to block her from her position.
In a joint statement, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso expressed their disappointment, stating, "With heavy hearts, we have resigned from our roles as patrons of the organization until further notice, in support of and solidarity with the board of trustees who have had to do the same." They added, "It is devastating that the relationship between the charity’s trustees and the chair of the board broke down beyond repair, creating an untenable situation." This sentiment echoes the feelings of many involved, as the charity faces a significant upheaval.
Chandauka, a Zimbabwe-born lawyer, has countered the allegations against her, asserting that she has acted with integrity and is committed to the charity's mission. In her defense, she stated, "Everything I do at Sentebale is in pursuit of the integrity of the organization, its mission, and the young people we serve. My actions are guided by the principles of fairness and equitable treatment for all, regardless of social status or financial means." She has also accused the former trustees of behaving as if they are "above the law" and using media narratives to undermine her position.
As the controversy unfolds, the charity is undergoing a restructuring process aimed at addressing the governance issues that have arisen. A spokesperson for Sentebale confirmed that the board restructuring was scheduled for March 25, 2025, with plans to bring in experts to help guide the organization through its transformation agenda.
Former trustees, including Timothy Boucher and Mark Dyer, have voiced their concerns about Chandauka's leadership, stating that her legal actions are an attempt to prevent them from voting her out. They described their unanimous resignation as a difficult but necessary decision, emphasizing their commitment to the charity's mission and the well-being of its beneficiaries.
In a recent statement, Chandauka expressed her determination to continue her role, saying, "I will not be intimidated. I must stand for something. I stand for those other women who do not have the ways and means." Her refusal to step down has led to a complicated legal battle, with the Charity Commission for England and Wales now assessing the situation to determine appropriate regulatory steps.
The fallout from this internal conflict has raised questions about the future direction of Sentebale, which has evolved over the years to address various issues facing young people in Southern Africa. In April 2024, the charity signaled a shift in focus to encompass broader issues of youth health, wealth, and climate resilience, alongside its ongoing work with HIV/AIDS.
Prince Harry's involvement with Sentebale has been deeply personal, stemming from his life-changing trip to Lesotho during his gap year in 2004. His experiences there inspired him to create a charity that would make a lasting impact on the lives of vulnerable children. He has remained actively engaged in the organization's work, most recently visiting Lesotho in October 2024, where he spoke with young people about the difference Sentebale has made in their lives.
As the charity navigates this tumultuous period, both Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso have reiterated their commitment to the mission of Sentebale, despite stepping back from their formal roles. They stated, "Although we may no longer be patrons, we will always be its founders, and we will never forget what this charity is capable of achieving when it is in the right care."
The situation highlights the complexities of leadership within charitable organizations, especially those that rely heavily on public trust and support. The ongoing legal battles and internal strife could have lasting implications for Sentebale and its ability to fulfill its mission in the communities it serves.
As the Charity Commission continues its assessment, stakeholders and supporters of Sentebale will be watching closely to see how this leadership crisis unfolds and what it means for the future of the charity and the vulnerable populations it aims to support.
