Prince Harry's interest in Sentebale dwindled after marrying Meghan Markle

Prince Harry is facing fresh criticism over his involvement with Sentebale, the charity he co-founded in 2006 to support vulnerable young people in Southern Africa particularly those affected by HIV and AIDS.

According to Chief Khoabane Theko, brother of Prince Seeiso of Lesotho (Harry’s co-founder), the Duke of Sussex’s dedication to the charity reportedly waned after his 2018 marriage to Meghan Markle.

“He’s a loved figure because of his openness, but his loss of interest has totally killed the spirit of Sentebale's survival,” Chief Theko told The Telegraph. “I haven't seen him since he got himself married.”

Harry last visited Lesotho in October 2024, his first time in six years, having previously made four visits between 2010 and 2015.

Recalling the charity’s early days, Chief Theko said Harry was deeply committed. “When it was launched, I remember his words quite vividly. He was very strong in saying, ‘My mother, this place, her passion about Africa.’”

What is Prince Harry's Sentebale controversy? 

Last month, both Harry and Prince Seeiso stepped down from Sentebale, along with the board of trustees. Their departure triggered a regulatory compliance case by the UK Charity Commission, which is now investigating governance concerns and the conduct of trustees past and present.

The resignation also followed controversy surrounding Sentebale’s chair, Dr. Sophia Chandauka, who has since accused Harry and Meghan’s brand of being “toxic” and alleged a campaign of “harassment and bullying” — claims that have been strongly denied.

The Charity Commission emphasized that their compliance case is meant to assess whether trustees have fulfilled their legal duties and responsibilities.

RELATED: Prince Harry advised to address Sentebale racism row privately to avoid legal action