Inside Prince Harry's sudden departure from his beloved Sentebale charity

Prince Harry has stepped down from Sentebale, the charity he co-founded nearly two decades ago — and the move has sparked headlines, heartache, and controversy.

The Duke of Sussex, who co-founded the organisation with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in 2006, confirmed this week that both founders have resigned from their roles. T

he announcement comes just one year before the charity's 20th anniversary and has been met with emotional reactions and fiery statements.

Sentebale was created in memory of Princess Diana and works with vulnerable children and young people in Lesotho and Botswana. 

Its mission: to tackle poverty, support mental health and well-being, and fight the ongoing impact of HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa.

The charity has long been close to Harry’s heart. He first visited Lesotho during his gap year in 2004 and quickly formed a deep bond with the people and the country — a connection that endured for two decades. 

His most recent visit was in October 2024, where he praised the Lesotho royal family’s unwavering support, calling the country “a pillar of strength.”

Why Did Prince Harry step down?

The shock departure stems from a wave of internal turbulence. A recent decision to relocate the charity’s fundraising operations to Africa reportedly led to significant internal disagreements — and several high-level resignations followed.

As tensions escalated, Harry and Prince Seeiso ultimately chose to walk away, issuing a joint statement expressing that they are “truly heartbroken” but stand in solidarity with those who departed.

Their statement reads: “We are proud of all that has been achieved and are confident in Sentebale’s future. We are stepping back from our roles as Patrons until further notice, in support of those who’ve chosen to leave."

In an unexpected twist, Sentebale chairwoman Dr. Sophie Chandauka, a Zimbabwe-born lawyer, issued a bold and scathing statement that appeared to take aim at internal critics. 

"Leaders who truly believe in the mission of a charity do not walk away when the going gets tough," she said, calling on staff and supporters to refocus on Sentebale’s mission, not personal agendas.

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