Prince Harry Follows in Mother Diana’s Footsteps in Angola

• Prince Harry retraces his mother Diana’s steps in Angola.
• He walks through an active minefield to raise landmine awareness.
• The visit supports HALO Trust’s efforts in clearing explosives.
• Families in Cuito Cuanavale face ongoing threats from landmines.
• HALO Trust has destroyed over 120,000 landmines in Angola.

Raising Awareness for Landmines in Angola

Prince Harry’s recent visit to Angola has significant resonance, as he retraced the steps of his mother, the late Princess Diana. On Wednesday, he donned a flak jacket and walked through an active landmine area as part of his mission to raise awareness for the HALO Trust, a charity dedicated to clearing landmines from former war zones. This poignant moment not only highlights the ongoing struggle against landmines but also sheds light on the lingering dangers faced by civilians in regions scarred by conflict.

Continuing His Mother’s Legacy

During his time in Cuito Cuanavale, Prince Harry met with local families residing near what is known to be the world’s largest minefield. His efforts to raise awareness are reminiscent of his mother’s impactful 1997 visit, which brought global attention to the risks posed by these explosives. Speaking to reporters, he addressed the devastating reality faced by children in the region, emphasizing that no child should have to endure fear while simply trying to play or get to school due to the remnants of war still present more than three decades later.

Government Commitment to Landmine Clearance

In his remarks, the Duke of Sussex acknowledged Angola’s government for its strong commitment to eliminating landmines. He stated, “The Angolan government’s continued commitment is a powerful testament to HALO’s success in saving lives and reducing humanitarian risk.” He expressed gratitude to President Lourenço for demonstrating leadership and for the support from donors, underlining that collaborative efforts are crucial for achieving a landmine-free future in the country, which has seen devastating impacts from landmines since its civil war.

In conclusion, Prince Harry’s walk in Angola serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to continue efforts against landmines, a cause that his mother championed in the past. His visit not only honors Princess Diana’s legacy but reinforces the importance of international collaboration and governmental commitment to safeguarding communities from the dangers posed by explosives left in the wake of conflict. As HALO Trust continues its mission, the support from leaders like Prince Harry and the Angolan government remains vital in striving toward a landmine-free future.