Africa's special place for Harry and Meghan
Africa has always held a special place for Harry, Meghan. It’s a continent that provided refuge for a young Prince Harry after the tragic death of his mother, Princess Diana. It is also where the couple's romance blossomed during their early days. After only two dates, Harry convinced Meghan to join him on a safari in Botswana, where they camped under the stars. This initial connection, along with subsequent trips, cemented their bond with the continent and, by extension, the idea of a life there. It's a sentiment that made the thought of moving to Africa a compelling one instead of the US.
The plan for a new life, scrapped
Their plans for an African move were detailed and carefully constructed. An internal document, signed off by the Queen’s office, detailed a plan for Harry, Meghan to move to South Africa, working part-time as royals while supporting charities. A key aspect of the plan, as Meghan reportedly saw it, was leveraging her identity as a woman of color within the Commonwealth. But the dream was short-lived. The plan was leaked to the press, causing it to become a public debate. According to Harry, when such sensitive plans become public, they are almost certain to fail. It was a heartbreaking moment that saw their envisioned life in Africa crumble, forcing them to consider other options instead of the US.
Why an African life didn't happen
Ultimately, the couple determined that a full-time move to Africa was not feasible. In the 2019 documentary Harry & Meghan: An African Journey, Harry addressed the rumors directly. While acknowledging how amazing Cape Town would be as a base, he cited the complex political and social issues facing the continent. He felt that being a semi-detached royal, even with good intentions, could lead to more judgment and criticism. The logistical and ethical challenges of making a real difference while remaining connected to the Royal Family proved too much, and the idea of moving there instead of the US was ultimately abandoned.
Final destination: The United States
While the plan to relocate to Africa fizzled out, the desire for a quieter, more private life away from the U.K. remained. The alternative, and what we know today, was a new life in the US. After an intermediary stop in Canada, Harry and Meghan found their home in Montecito, California. Though their lives will be "predominantly focused on Africa" in their philanthropic endeavors, it was the need for a fresh start, rather than a continuation of their royal roles abroad, that defined their final destination. The fact that Harry, Meghan once considered a future in Africa, instead of the US, offers a fascinating glimpse into their decision-making process.
