Prince Harry and Meghan Markle recently made headlines with their four-day visit to Colombia, a trip that has been widely regarded as a success.
During their stay, the former royals visited major cities such as Bogotá, Cali, and Cartagena, engaging in various activities and events.
The trip was praised by the Colombian Ministry of Equality and Equity, headed by Vice-President Francia Márquez, who emphasized the positive outcomes of the visit.
How much did Harry and Meghan’s visit to Colombia cost?
One notable aspect of this trip is that Harry, 39, and Meghan, 42, personally financed their visit, according to a statement from the Ministry, as reported by El País.
A spokesperson clarified, “The Duke and Duchess of Sussex funded their trip and that of their team with their own resources,” said a spokesman.
This statement debunked earlier rumors in the local media that claimed the trip had cost a staggering eight billion pesos (around $2 million). However, the precise cost of the visit remains undisclosed.
Some events attended by the Duke and Duchess were reportedly “co-financed,” with support from international agencies believed to have helped cover certain expenses.
According to El País, while most of the trip’s costs were not covered by the Colombian government, there were some elements, such as travel expenses and meals, that might have been funded by the state.
The Afro Women and Power Forum, one of the events the couple attended, is reportedly supported by national government funding as well.
The visit was considered a success, with the Ministry highlighting that it provided an opportunity for the Colombian people to connect with the Archewell Foundation, founded by Harry and Meghan.
The trip also served to promote Colombia as an attractive destination for both business and tourism.
Archewell’s objective in Colombia is to support programs for the economic empowerment of women, the prevention of digital violence against young people, and the promotion of peace through art and culture.
Vice-President Márquez also commented on the visit, stating, “The whole world has set its eyes on Colombia’s diversity and cultural richness. It has been demonstrated that we are not the country of violence, but the country of hope, fraternity, good hosts, and peace.”
What is clear is that Meghan and Harry’s four-day visit to Colombia allowed them to enjoy the local culture and various philanthropic activities.