The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are gearing up for an exciting trip to Colombia, where they are scheduled to attend the Petronio Alvarez Festival in Cali. The festival, which celebrates Afro-Colombian culture, promises a vibrant display of music, food, drink, and a fashion show. This cultural event, running from August 14 to 19, is a significant showcase of the rich heritage of the region. Additionally, Harry and Meghan will also visit San Basilio de Palenque, the first free African town in the Americas. This historic town, nestled in the foothills of the Montes de María, serves as a vital link to the past and has been recognized as an Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
The royal couple’s visit to Colombia comes at the behest of the country’s vice president, Francia Marquez. Harry and Meghan will have the opportunity to explore Bogota, Cartagena, and Cali, engaging with leaders, youth, and women who embody the aspirations of Colombians committed to progress. This visit aims to foster meaningful interactions and allow the Duke and Duchess to immerse themselves in the diverse culture and traditions of Colombia.
As part of their itinerary, the Sussexes are expected to participate in activities related to safeguarding young people online and in physical spaces. These discussions will set the stage for the Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children, which Colombia is set to host in November. The conference will address critical issues such as cyberbullying, online exploitation, and the mental health impacts of digital threats. The couple, along with the Archewell Foundation, are poised to contribute to these discussions and offer actionable solutions to ensure the safety of children worldwide.
In a recent development, Harry and Meghan launched The Parent Network, a new initiative aimed at providing parents with a safe and free-to-access support network to address the harms caused by social media. This initiative underscores the couple’s commitment to protecting children and promoting online safety. The Parent Network seeks to empower parents with resources and tools to navigate the digital landscape and protect their children from potential risks.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s upcoming trip to Colombia holds significant promise for fostering cultural exchange, advancing important discussions on safeguarding young people, and promoting initiatives to address the challenges of the digital age. Their visit is not only an opportunity to celebrate the diverse heritage of Colombia but also to engage with key stakeholders working towards a safer and more inclusive future for all.