Duchess Sophie wraps up Zambia royal tour

The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, has completed an eventful visit to Zambia as part of a royal tour focused on strengthening ties between the United Kingdom and the southern African nation.

Sophie visited Zambia from September 14 to 19, taking part in a series of engagements covering healthcare, education, environmental conservation and women’s empowerment.

During the visit, the Duchess met Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema. The meeting highlighted the longstanding relationship between Zambia and the UK.

A major part of Sophie’s tour focused on eye health. She visited Mukuni Rural Health Centre, where she learned about Zambia’s efforts to eliminate trachoma, a painful eye disease that can cause blindness.

The Duchess met healthcare workers, community volunteers and patients who have benefited from improved access to eye-care services. The visit highlighted local efforts to expand treatment and prevent avoidable vision loss.

Her itinerary also included a visit to Lower Zambezi, where she took part in activities linked to environmental conservation. She also visited Maramba Primary School and attended a reception hosted by an eye-health charity.

Sophie further met members of Kufadza female scouts and women business leaders during her stay. The engagements focused on the role of women and young people in local communities and development.

The Royal Family shared highlights from the tour on Instagram, where the visit attracted positive reactions from royal followers.

Several users praised Sophie’s engagements, particularly her work related to women, eye health and environmental conservation. Others also expressed their support for the Duchess following her busy schedule in Zambia.