Turmoil at Sentebale: Staff Cuts and Financial Struggles
Prince Harry's former charity, Sentebale, which he co-founded in 2006 with Prince Seeiso of Lesotho to support children and young people in southern Africa, has recently undergone drastic changes. Reports indicate that the organization has reduced its London staff to just one employee, a decision driven by severe funding issues. This dramatic cut comes on the heels of a highly publicized dispute that has shaken the charity's foundation and led to a significant drop in donations.
The financial crisis at Sentebale has been attributed to the fallout from a bitter feud involving Prince Harry and the charity's chair, Sophie Chandauka. The public nature of this conflict has reportedly damaged the organization's reputation, making it challenging to secure the necessary funds to maintain operations at previous levels. As a result, nearly all UK-based staff have been laid off, marking a low point for an organization once celebrated for its impactful work in Lesotho and Botswana.
Behind the Feud: A 'Hostile Takeover' and Resignations
The root of Sentebale's current struggles lies in a contentious dispute that led to Prince Harry's resignation from the charity earlier this year. The Duke of Sussex, along with other trustees, stepped down amid accusations of a 'hostile takeover' by the current leadership. Prince Harry has been described as 'utterly devastated' by the turn of events, vowing not to return to the organization while its present management remains in place.
The Charity Commission, a UK watchdog, criticized all parties involved for allowing the disagreement to play out publicly, calling it 'damaging' to Sentebale's mission and image. Sophie Chandauka, the chair at the center of the controversy, faced allegations of attempting to oust other board members, further fueling tensions. This internal strife not only contributed to the loss of key figures like Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso but also eroded donor confidence, exacerbating the charity's financial woes.
Reports suggest that the public row has had a direct impact on funding, with warnings issued earlier that such a visible conflict could lead to a 'huge drop' in contributions. The loss of donations has forced Sentebale into a corner, prompting the drastic staff reductions in London as a means of cutting costs.
Future Uncertain: Prince Harry's Commitment and Sentebale's Path Forward
Despite his departure from Sentebale, Prince Harry remains committed to supporting children and young people in Lesotho and Botswana, the core mission of the charity he helped establish. Sources indicate that the Duke of Sussex is considering founding a new organization to continue this work, reflecting his dedication to the cause even after such a personal setback. His resolve to make a difference in the region remains unshaken, though the path forward is unclear.
Sentebale, meanwhile, faces an uncertain future as it grapples with rebuilding trust and stabilizing its finances. The reduction of its UK workforce to a single staff member signals a shift in operational focus, potentially towards more localized efforts in Africa. However, without significant efforts to restore donor confidence and mend its public image, the charity risks further decline, casting a shadow over its once-promising legacy.