Prince Albert II of Monaco Undertakes Four-Day Humanitarian Tour in Africa

Prince Albert II of Monaco embarked on a four-day official tour of the African continent, focusing primarily on humanitarian initiatives and the support of vulnerable children. The journey included major stops in Madagascar and Cameroon before continuing onward to Senegal.

During his visit to Madagascar, the sovereign participated in several high-profile inaugurations. His first stop was at Akamasoa, a solidarity community founded by Father Pedro Opeka, where he helped inaugurate a newly expanded school named the Prince Albert II College. The event drew thousands of cheering students who filled the stadium to capacity.

Continuing his schedule in the Malgache capital of Antananarivo, the prince visited the Sandratra project, an initiative backed by Monacan development cooperation to support street children, vulnerable youth, and young mothers. He also toured a medical dispensary associated with Fight Aids Monaco, an NGO founded by his sister, Princess Stéphanie, to support individuals living with HIV.

Following his time in Madagascar, Prince Albert traveled to Yaoundé, Cameroon, marking his first visit to the country in twenty-three years. Upon his arrival at Yaoundé-Nsimalen International Airport, he was greeted by Prime Minister Joseph Dion Ngute before launching into a busy itinerary of diplomatic and charitable engagements.

In Cameroon, the sovereign visited the Princess Grace Edimar Center, a facility supported by the Principality that provides housing, education, healthcare, and professional training for children in need. He praised the institution for rescuing thousands of youths from difficult backgrounds and giving them a renewed sense of hope.

Beyond his humanitarian work, the Monacan ruler engaged in high-level political talks during a meeting with Cameroonian President Paul Biya at the Unity Palace. The two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation and historical ties during an extended discussion that went well beyond its scheduled timeframe.

Concluding his African tour, Prince Albert traveled to Dakar, Senegal, to attend the opening ceremony of the fourth Youth Olympic Games in his capacity as a member of the International Olympic Committee. There, he met with newly elected IOC President Kirsty Coventry and greeted members of the Monacan athletic delegation participating in the games.