The Duke and Duchess of Sussex visit Colombia
Photo: Courtesy of the Vice Presidency of Colombia
During the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s stay, topics such as mental health, cyberbullying, inclusion and cultural diversity were addressed through visits to different educational institutions and communities.
“This visit was the result of a collective effort. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex financed their trip and that of their work team with their own resources. The events held in the various places visited were co-financed with resources from international cooperation and philanthropy that generously contributed to this visit. The Ministry of Equality and Equity and the Vice Presidency guaranteed the technical requirements, mobility and participation of young people, women and communities,” the statement said.
On the first day, the Duke and Duchess visited the Colegio Cultura Popular in Bogotá, where they discussed the responsible use of technology with students and teachers. They also attended a play at the Delia Zapata Olivella National Arts Centre and participated in a forum on the impact of technology on society at the EAN University.
At the forum, Prince Harry said: “We need to be able to separate truth from falsehood… We believe that the right to information is fundamental, but we are allowing lies to be spread. If social media continues as it is, we will continue to be divided.”
Meghan Markle added: “That addiction (to social media) could be positive to connect, to talk about positive things, but the digital age has created a culture where, if there is nothing cruel to say, it is better not to talk about it on social media.”
On the second day, the Duke and Duchess visited La Giralda School and the Directorate of Veterans and Inclusive Rehabilitation, where Prince Harry took part in a training session with sitting volleyball players, some of whom will compete in the Invictus Games in 2025.
The third day included visits to Cartagena and San Basilio de Palenque, where the importance of African heritage in Colombia was discussed. On the fourth and final day, the Duke and Duchess attended the “Afro Women and Power” forum in Cali, where Meghan Markle emphasized female empowerment: “We work incredibly together, as a team, and my husband is a great testament to the role of men in this, of empowering women, of letting them know that their voices are heard.”
The visit culminated with participation in the Petronio Álvarez Festival.
“It was a great experience to join my voice with that of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to promote healthier digital environments for young people, and quality education that considers the mental health of the entire educational community. It also promoted women’s leadership and their economic autonomy and made the diversity of our country visible. Through the Archewell Foundation and the other philanthropic organizations that have supported us, we will continue to unite our efforts to advance towards social justice,” said Vice President Francia Márquez.
