Prince Harry’s charity, Sentebale, is caught in turmoil as financial concerns and leadership conflicts have led to major resignations.
The organization, which supports young people in southern Africa living with HIV and AIDS, is now under scrutiny as insiders reveal internal struggles.
The crisis escalated when Prince Harry, his co-founder Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, and several trustees resigned from their roles. Their departure followed a breakdown in trust with the charity’s chair, Sophie Chandauka, who refused to step down despite calls for her resignation. The dispute has drawn the attention of the Charity Commission, which is now reviewing the concerns raised by former trustees.
One of the key financial worries is Sentebale’s US fundraising strategy. Reports suggest the charity spent £500,000 on consultants to attract wealthy American donors, but results have been unclear. The organization, however, defends the decision, stating that its partnership with US firm Lebec has helped establish 65 relationships with potential donors. The charity insists this long-term strategy is essential for securing sustainable funding beyond one-time donations, such as the £1.2 million from Prince Harry’s book, Spare.
The conflict took another turn when Chandauka accused Prince Harry and others of trying to push her out. She has filed a whistleblower complaint, alleging bullying, harassment, and misogyny within the organization. She also claimed that Prince Harry’s public controversies had made corporate sponsors hesitant to support the charity.
The leadership dispute has exposed deep divisions within Sentebale. Insiders describe tensions that had been building since last year, with differing opinions on how the charity should secure funding and operate.
Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso expressed sadness over their departure, stating that Sentebale remains a cause close to their hearts. However, with leadership fractures and financial challenges mounting, the charity faces an uncertain future.