Zambia is welcoming Her Royal Highness Sophie, the Duchess of Edinburgh, who is on an official visit to the country from September 14 to 19. President Hakainde Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema received the Duchess of Edinburgh at Community House.

During her visit, the Duchess has met artists, entrepreneurs and members of the public, including a visit to Imvelo Studios, a contemporary art space where she met artists and survivors of gender-based violence using creative expression for empowerment, healing and advocacy.

She also met Zambian women entrepreneurs for conversations around leadership, business and creating opportunities for the next generation. At Jewel of Africa, a family-owned business, the Duchess met workers and learned more about their work.

Her programme also takes her beyond Lusaka, with a visit to Mosi-oa-Tunya, also known as Victoria Falls, one of the world’s Seven Natural Wonders, as well as the World War One Memorial.

The visit marks her return to Zambia more than a decade after her previous trip in 2014.

As Global Ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, the Duchess is also expected to visit a local clinic in Mukuni Village, highlighting eye health and blindness prevention.

The Duchess has travelled to several African countries through her royal and charitable work, including Ethiopia, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Tanzania, as well as visiting a refugee camp in Chad.

Her latest visit to Zambia brings together heritage, culture, business and community engagement as she continues her work across the continent.