Prince Harry’s solo visit to Angola renews global attention on landmine clearance, echoing Princess Diana’s 1997 humanitarian mission. As Angola faces economic protests and prepares for major international events, Harry’s advocacy highlights both progress and persistent challenges in the nation’s journey toward recovery.
Prince Harry has returned to Angola to continue his late mother Princess Diana’s legacy of landmine clearance, marking 28 years since her landmark 1997 visit. Arriving solo on July 15, 2025, the Duke met with President João Lourenço and the HALO Trust team to discuss and promote demining initiatives, echoing Diana’s campaign that helped rally global support for the landmark 1997 Mine Ban Treaty.
Read the statement from HALO Trust CEO James Cowan as President Lourenço, alongside Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, today reaffirmed his "extraordinary dedication to and investment in the vision of a mine-free #Angola.
— The HALO Trust (@TheHALOTrust) July 15, 2025
➡️ https://t.co/czZdXt20cNpic.twitter.com/54hkeViTY5
Despite decades of clearance, Angola remains among the world’s most mine-affected countries, with more than 1,000 minefields—covering roughly 67 square kilometers—left to clear as of late 2024. The 27-year civil war (1975–2002) left an estimated 80,000 Angolans killed or injured by landmines.
The HALO Trust has cleared over 123,000 mines since 1994, but Angola’s ambitious goal to be mine-free by 2025 remains a significant challenge.
Harry’s visit, without Meghan Markle due to reported security concerns, underscores both personal and public stakes.
He has openly spoken about the responsibility he feels to continue Diana’s humanitarian work and the dangers that still face Angolan communities.
During his stay, Harry walked through formerly mined areas—now busy streets, homes, and schools—demonstrating the tangible impact of clearance efforts.
Officials noted that the Angolan government has committed to further supporting the HALO Trust with a renewed three-year contract.
The trip also comes amid hopeful signs of easing tensions with the royal family, following informal talks between his aides and those of King Charles.
Harry’s presence in Angola not only honors his mother’s memory but also renews international attention on the ongoing humanitarian need and the unhealed scars left by war in Angola
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