Duke and Duchess of Sussex Embrace Colombian Culture on Their Tour

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, are making waves in Colombia as they embark on a significant cultural journey.

Arriving in the historic port city of Cartagena, the couple is on the third day of what many are calling a quasi-royal tour.

They have been warmly welcomed by locals eager to share their rich traditions with the royal pair.

Their first stop was the Escuela Tambores de Cabildo, a drum school dedicated to preserving the vibrant legacy of African drumming in the region.

Founded by Rafael Ramos, this institution plays a crucial role in educating young people about the art form, which is deeply intertwined with Cartagena's Afro-Colombian heritage.

The energy was palpable as the couple arrived to lively musical performances that highlighted the talents of the students.

After enjoying the music, Prince Harry and Meghan engaged in meaningful discussions with community members.

They focused on the importance of cultural preservation in Cartagena, emphasizing the need to celebrate Afro-Colombian traditions amid the pressures of modernization.

This engagement showcases their commitment to uplifting local communities through cultural appreciation.

However, body language expert Judy James offered a nuanced perspective on the couple's demeanor during their visit.

She noted that while Meghan exuded confidence and poise, Prince Harry seemed somewhat awkward and less engaged.

Traditionally, the couple has shared the spotlight during their public appearances, but this time, Meghan appeared to take the lead, often leaving Harry in the background.

James observed that Harry's expressions fluctuated between joy and discomfort, suggesting he might still be adjusting to life outside the royal spotlight.

Since stepping back from their official duties in 2020, he has been navigating this new dynamic, which has clearly impacted his comfort level in public settings.

Despite these challenges, Harry managed to leave a positive impression, smiling and waving cheerfully to onlookers as they departed the school.

Later in the day, the couple was scheduled to visit a village with significant historical ties to Africa, reinforcing their dedication to marginalized communities and cultural heritage.

This particular visit holds special meaning for Meghan, who recently discovered her Nigerian ancestry.

In a 2022 episode of her podcast “Archetypes,” she revealed being 43% Nigerian, a revelation that has influenced her public engagements.

During a visit to Nigeria earlier this year, she expressed a deep connection to the country, referring to it as “my country.”

The couple's Colombian tour kicked off on Thursday, following an invitation from Vice President Francia Marquez.

Their presence has generated considerable interest, not only because of their royal status but also due to their focus on social media and cultural issues affecting the region.

On Sunday, they plan to continue their tour in Cali, where they will attend a forum centered on Afro-Colombian women's empowerment and meet with young women from the Pacific region.

Their journey underscores their ongoing commitment to causes close to their hearts, even as they navigate their new roles.

Throughout their travels, Harry and Meghan have been accompanied by a full security detail, ensuring their safety while engaging with various communities across Colombia.

Although they no longer serve in official royal capacities, their influence remains significant, drawing attention and support for the issues they champion.

As the couple continues their Colombian adventure, many are left wondering what impact their visit will have on both local communities and their own journey of self-discovery.

It's clear that Harry and Meghan are committed to making a difference, one cultural exchange at a time.