On March 27, 2025, the Duke of Sussex, Prince Harry, made headlines as he stepped down from his role as patron of Sentebale, a charity he co-founded to support vulnerable children in southern Africa. This decision has sparked a wave of criticism, particularly from Dr. Sophie Chandauka, who expressed her discontent with Harry's resignation.
Dr. Chandauka, a prominent advocate for charitable work in Africa, did not hold back her feelings about the Duke's departure. She publicly criticized him, suggesting that his exit from such a crucial position raises questions about his commitment to the very causes he once championed.
Sentebale, which means "Forget Me Not" in the local language, was established in 2006 by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in memory of their late mothers. Over the years, the charity has focused on providing support for children affected by HIV/AIDS and those with disabilities in the region. The organization has become a significant part of Harry's life, reflecting his deep commitment to charitable work.
As news of his resignation broke, sources close to the Duke revealed that he is devastated by the decision. For Prince Harry, stepping away from Sentebale means the end of a chapter that has been close to his heart for nearly two decades. His involvement with the charity has been characterized by heartfelt engagements, including attending polo matches and fundraising events, with the most recent being in New York in December 2024.
According to the editor-in-chief of Majesty magazine, Harry's connection to the charity runs deep. "Harry and his friend and joint founder of the charity Prince Seeiso set up Sentebale in 2006 in memory of their late mothers," she explained. "It has been close to Harry's heart for 20 years." The emotional weight of this work is evident, as he has been known to form personal bonds with the children he supports, often cuddling and playing with them during his visits.
The magazine editor further highlighted the impact that Prince Harry's involvement has had on the lives of many children in Lesotho, stating, "He took the orphaned Sentebale children living with AIDS and multiple disabilities to his heart. Literally. He cuddled and loved them, played football with them, and hugged them." These personal interactions illustrate how deeply Harry has invested himself in the mission of Sentebale.
Reflecting on his long-standing commitment, the editor recalled a pivotal moment in 2010 when Prince Harry brought his brother, Prince William, to Lesotho to meet some of the orphans. This visit was a testament to the bond the brothers shared and their shared commitment to philanthropy, especially in the wake of their mothers' legacies.
Mark Dyer, a former equerry to their father and a mentor to both princes, played a crucial role in helping Harry establish Sentebale. Known as a 'surrogate father' to Harry, Dyer's guidance was instrumental in shaping the charity's direction and ensuring its success.
As the news of Prince Harry's resignation continues to circulate, the response from the public and media has been mixed. Many supporters of Sentebale express concern over the potential implications of his departure for the charity's future. Some worry that losing such a high-profile patron could affect fundraising efforts and the visibility of the issues facing the children the charity serves.
In contrast, critics like Dr. Chandauka argue that Harry's resignation is emblematic of a broader trend among celebrities who engage with charitable causes. They suggest that such figures often step back when it becomes inconvenient or challenging to maintain their commitments.
Despite the criticism, it's essential to recognize the positive impact that Sentebale has had under Prince Harry's leadership. The charity has raised significant funds and awareness for the plight of children in southern Africa, helping to improve their lives through various initiatives.
As Prince Harry navigates this transition, he faces a complex landscape of public opinion. His deep emotional ties to Sentebale and the children it supports make this decision particularly poignant. The Duke's departure may mark a new chapter in his life, but the legacy of his work with Sentebale will likely endure.
For now, the future of Sentebale remains uncertain. As the charity continues its mission, the hope is that it will thrive, regardless of the changes in its leadership. Prince Harry's contributions have undoubtedly left a lasting mark, and many will be watching closely to see how the organization evolves without him.
In the wake of his resignation, it is clear that Prince Harry's journey in philanthropy is far from over. While he may have stepped back from Sentebale, his passion for charitable work remains strong. The Duke's next steps will undoubtedly be scrutinized, as supporters and critics alike await to see how he will continue to advocate for vulnerable communities around the world.
