Duke and Duchess of Sussex highlight Afro-descendant empowerment during their visit to Colombia.

During a historic four-day visit to Colombia, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, concluded their tour with an emotional forum on Afro-descendant women in Cali, held as part of the city’s colorful and traditional music festival. The couple arrived in the country at the invitation of Vice President Francia Márquez, the first Afro-descendant to hold this position in Colombia, highlighting the cultural and social significance of their trip. The forum, titled "Afro Women and Power," brought together prominent leaders from Black communities in the region, who shared their experiences and reflections on the challenges they face. In a vibrant atmosphere filled with drums and music rooted in Afro-descendant culture, Harry and Meghan engaged in conversations about empowerment and the fight against inequality. The Duchess of Sussex, visibly moved, expressed her gratitude in Spanish, recalling her language learning from two decades ago. Meghan joined Vice President Márquez in discussing the role of women in politics and the need to reduce poverty in Afro-Colombian communities. Panelist Ana Granja emphasized that “our living conditions make us strong women,” highlighting the courage and resilience that characterize leaders in a context of racism and discrimination that further complicates their struggle. The forum addressed the importance of political participation and generating funding networks for programs that benefit women affected by gender-based violence. Vice President Márquez called on the dukes to support these initiatives, emphasizing that the work of the leaders not only dignifies the community but also creates a conducive environment for the development and well-being of women, children, and adolescents. The day culminated in a fashion show showcasing colorful designs and accessories inspired by Colombian Pacific culture, a moment that symbolized the country's cultural richness and the couple's commitment to social struggles. Meanwhile, Prince Harry joined the audience, actively participating in the discussions that marked this gathering. In the days leading up to this forum, Harry and Meghan visited Afro-descendant communities in the Colombian Caribbean, where they interacted with community leaders and familiarized themselves with their traditions. In Cartagena, the dukes were able to appreciate firsthand Colombia's rich cultural heritage, as well as the challenges faced by the Afro-descendant community in their fight for recognition and dignity. The trip also included a visit to Bogotá, where they participated in a forum on digital security, advocating for the mental health of young people and the fight against cyberbullying. This theme has been a central focus of their foundation, Archewell, which seeks to raise awareness about child welfare and the prevention of risky situations in digital environments. Prince Harry showed particular interest in supporting veterans and military personnel affected by the armed conflict that Colombia has experienced for years. His connection to the Invictus Games, an initiative that promotes recovery through sports, resonates with his desire to help those who have faced significant adversities. Throughout their visit, the couple has been under a comprehensive security detail, reflecting both their status as public figures and the interest generated by their presence in the country. Since stepping back from the British royal family in 2020, Harry and Meghan have explored new ways to contribute to social causes, establishing their home in California and founding their nonprofit organization. The visit of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to Colombia has not only been a high-profile event but also an opportunity to bring visibility to the struggles of historically marginalized communities. With their commitment to social welfare, Harry and Meghan have left a mark on the country while reaffirming their role as advocates for human rights and women's empowerment on a global scale.