Harry's African Charity Cuts Staff Following Scandal and Leadership Conflict

Major Changes at Prince Harry’s Former Charity, Sentebale

Prince Harry's former charity, Sentebale, has undergone significant changes following a major "bullying" scandal that shook the organization. The UK headquarters of the charity has been dramatically downsized to just one employee, and its global leadership is also undergoing substantial transformations.

Founded in 2006 by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, Sentebale was established in honor of Princess Diana. However, after a long tenure as patron, Harry stepped down from his role due to the controversy surrounding the organization.

The charity is reportedly facing financial challenges, which have led to major staffing changes and a mass exodus of workers. According to reports, seven departures occurred between April and September. In a redundancy letter, Sentebale reportedly stated that it does not have donor funding and is facing retrenchment. This includes the global head of finance and compliance, as well as several other staff members.

Sentebale Claims the Move Is Part of Their 'Global Restructuring'

According to news outlets, the organization claims that the layoffs were part of a "global restructuring" plan that had been discussed in early 2024 and announced in December. The charity stated that the goal of the restructuring is to improve efficiencies, transition senior executive roles to Southern Africa, and respond to changing service delivery demands.

The organization added that the restructuring was prompted by increasing uncertainty related to international donor funding, such as USAID, and events like polo. It also noted that the narrative being created regarding the departures is entirely misleading.

Prince Harry’s Fallout With Sentebale

The downsizing follows a public clash earlier this year that led to Harry's resignation and several trustees stepping down. In a statement, Harry's team mentioned that the relationship between the charity's trustees and the chair of the board broke down beyond repair, creating an untenable situation.

It appeared that the emergence of the organization's chairwoman, Sophie Chandauka, did not sit well with some members of the board, who expressed their desire for her to step down. However, Chandauka responded with unsettling claims, alleging a "cover-up" at the charity, as well as accusations of "racist, sexist bullying," and counter-accusations regarding organizational management.

The Sentebale Chair Took a Subtle Dig at Prince Harry

In her remarks about the alleged bullying, Dr. Chandauka seemed to take a subtle dig at Harry and the board of trustees for playing the "victim card." She criticized individuals who behave as though they are above the law and mistreat people, stating that they use "the very press they disdain."

"For me, this is not a vanity project from which I can resign when I am called to account," she said. "I am an African who has had the privilege of a world-class education and career. I will not be intimidated. I must stand for something. I stand for those other women who do not have the ways and means."

Prince Harry Is Looking to Launch a New Charity

Meanwhile, Harry is reportedly looking to launch a new charity following his fallout with Sentebale's leadership. According to reports, sources close to Harry confirm that he wants to continue supporting the children of Lesotho and Botswana. He is exploring options on how to move forward.

"He may well choose to just support existing charities operating in the same space in the region, or he may choose to set up something new completely," the source said. Harry's official spokesperson previously stated that the prince remains "absolutely committed to continuing the work he started, supporting the children and young people of Lesotho and Botswana, nearly 20 years ago."

"In what form that support takes – no decisions have been made. All options remain on the table, whether that be starting a new charity or working to support pre-existing charities operating in the same sector in the region," they added.

Earlier this month, a source described the fallout at Sentebale as "emotionally absolutely devastating" for Harry, calling Chandauka's comments "nothing short of a hostile takeover."