The Royal Family, particularly Prince Harry and Prince William, are known for their deep affection for Africa. Now, it seems another Royal has been captivated by the continent.
Crown Prince Christian of Denmark, heir to the throne, is set to embark on an extended stay in East Africa following his recent high school graduation.
On August 30, The Royal House of Denmark announced that the 18 year old future king will travel to East Africa for an “extended stay” from September 4 until December.
During his visit, Prince Christian “will be involved in the daily operation of two farms, which will, among other things, include practical and administrative tasks and also give the crown prince insight into local nature protection.”
The Royal House further clarified that this overseas stint is part of a longstanding tradition where successors to the throne spend extended periods abroad during their youth to gain worldly experience. This tradition was followed by the Prince’s father, King Frederik, who undertook a similar trip to Mongolia in 1986.
Similarly, Queen Margrethe, Christian’s grandmother who abdicated earlier this year, travelled to East and South America in the 1960s for an enlightening educational experience, reports the Mirror.
News of Prince Christian’s gap year in East Africa comes just two months after his high school graduation. The young Royal is yet to decide whether he will continue with further education or join the military.
Interestingly, this move mirrors that of Prince Harry, who frequently visited South and East African countries during his youth and adult life. Like the Crown Prince, Harry also spent an extended period in Africa, specifically a two-month stint in Lesotho back in 2004.
During his time in Lesotho, Prince Harry was involved in various projects, raising awareness for HIV and AIDS, as well as addressing issues such as drought and poverty. Since his initial visit at 19, Harry has returned to the country five times, demonstrating his deep affection for the nation.
Furthermore, over the past two decades, Harry has travelled to several other African countries, including Botswana, South Africa, Mozambique, Angola, Malawi, Nigeria and Zambia. He often speaks highly of his connection and respect for these places, which hold a special place in his heart.
