Shock Resignation: Prince Harry Steps Down from Sentebale

In a move described as “devastating” and “unthinkable,” Prince Harry has formally resigned from Sentebale, the charity he co-founded in 2006 to support vulnerable children and young people affected by HIV and AIDS in Lesotho and Botswana. The charity, which has long been one of his most personal philanthropic commitments, now finds itself at the centre of a governance dispute that has rocked its leadership and shaken confidence in its future.

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🏛️ A Legacy Built on Compassion

Sentebale — meaning “Forget Me Not” in Sesotho — was founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho in memory of their mothers: Princess Diana and Queen ‘Mamohato. It was created as a direct response to the devastating impact of HIV and AIDS on children in southern Africa, many of whom had lost one or both parents to the epidemic.

For nearly two decades, Sentebale has offered support through psychosocial care, health education, leadership development, and community-based programmes. The organisation stood out not only for its royal connections, but for its long-term commitment to culturally-sensitive and youth-led programming in one of the world’s most overlooked regions.

Prince Harry remained deeply involved in the charity’s work even after stepping back from royal duties, calling Sentebale one of his proudest achievements.

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⚠️ So What Happened?

The resignation comes after a turbulent internal dispute that centres on governance and leadership.

According to multiple sources including The Guardian, People, and The Times, tensions arose between the board of trustees and Dr. Sophie Chandauka, who served as Chair of Sentebale. Trustees reportedly requested her resignation following concerns over her conduct and approach to governance. In response, Dr. Chandauka refused to step down and has since initiated legal proceedings.

Rather than continue amid the conflict, Prince Harry, Prince Seeiso, and the rest of the board chose to resign — a dramatic decision that signals deep discontent within the organisation’s leadership.

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📢 Statements from the Founders

In a joint statement, Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso said:

“What has transpired is deeply upsetting and simply unthinkable. Sentebale was built on trust, compassion, and community — values that we feel have been undermined.”

They expressed ongoing support for Sentebale’s mission, despite stepping away, and voiced hope that the charity would weather this leadership crisis and continue its essential work.

Dr. Chandauka, meanwhile, has alleged poor governance, abuse of power, and harassment — and has escalated the matter to the UK Charity Commission, which is now reviewing the case.

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🔍 Why This Matters to the Wider Sector

While the headlines focus on Prince Harry, this situation offers broader insights — and lessons — for the charity sector:

🧭 1. Good Governance Is Non-Negotiable

No matter how compelling a mission may be, a charity’s effectiveness and credibility are rooted in strong, transparent governance. Internal disagreements — especially at board level — can erode trust, distract from service delivery, and in worst cases, derail entire missions.

🤝 2. Founders Are Not Always Forever

Even the most committed founders can step away when conflicts escalate or values are misaligned. This highlights the need for organisations to prepare for founder transitions — not just practically, but emotionally and reputationally.

🌍 3. Global Charities Face Unique Accountability Challenges

With operations spanning the UK and southern Africa, Sentebale’s leadership dispute may point to the complexity of cross-border governance, representation, and ensuring accountability across cultures and continents.

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❤️ The Work Continues

Despite the current turmoil, Sentebale’s programmes in Lesotho and Botswana continue to operate. The children and communities it serves still face daily challenges, and the work of empowering HIV-affected youth remains urgent.

The Charity Commission’s inquiry will likely determine whether changes are needed in how Sentebale operates at the board level, but the need for the charity’s mission — and the visibility it has gained over the years — remains undeniable.

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🧠 Final Thoughts: A Reminder of What’s at Stake

Prince Harry’s resignation is a stark reminder that no charity, no matter how high-profile or well-intentioned, is immune to internal strain. But it’s also a moment to reflect on the strength of a cause when it transcends its founders.

For organisations working with vulnerable populations, especially children, continuity, trust, and ethical leadership are everything. Let this be a moment of reflection — not just for Sentebale, but for every charity working to uphold its mission in complex times.

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📌 If you run or support a small charity and want to learn more about strong governance, leadership transition, or safeguarding your mission — stay tuned for our upcoming guide for trustees.

Find more ways to make a difference by using our Charity Finder.