Prince Harry has opened up about his family plans in a new documentary that follows his continued work in Aids-stricken Lesotho.
Speaking with ITV’s Tom Bradby ahead of the airing of the film, the young royal has revealed his strong connection with Africa and his wish for his future children to share the same values.
‘For me, I have this love of Africa that will never disappear, and I hope it carries on with my children as well,’ the 32-year-old says.
Harry, who is dating Suits actress Meghan Markle, also disclosed how he first became drawn to the continent as a fresh-faced 19-year-old on his gap year.
‘In 1997 I went to Botswana and that’s when I really fell in love with Africa and what it has to offer,’ he said.
But when asked by Bradby if he remembered the reason behind his initial visit an embarrassed Harry replied: ‘I first went to Africa… with my dad to see a Spice Girls concert in Johannesburg.’
In the documentary, the royal also reflected on his ongoing charity work, admitting the reason he got involved was to make his mother “proud.”
He said his experiences in Africa over the years have given him an “escape and let him use his ‘name and the position for good.’
The candid confession came after his emotional reunion with 16-year-old Mutsu, an African orphan he was first introduced to 12 years ago. In the heartwarming moment caught on camera, the prince was visibly overcome with joy and couldn’t help but scoop the teenager into a giant hug.
Over the years the pair had managed to keep in touch, writing letters back and forth and updating one another on ongoing details of their lives.
The film titled, Prince Harry In Africa is set to air in the UK on Monday.