The Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie, participated in a creative workshop focused on polishing gemstones at Jewel of Africa, a family-run jewellery business in Lusaka, Zambia, as part of her five-day tour of the country. The visit on the second day of her tour highlighted the business's use of ethically sourced Zambian gemstones and local craftsmanship, elements that have been central to its operation since its founding in 1992.
During her time at the workshop, the Duchess tried her hand at shaping and polishing a quartz gemstone and observed the intricate processes involved in jewellery creation. She also learned about the company's commitment to sustainability, direct sourcing from Zambian mines, and responsible supply chains.
Later in the day, Sophie visited Imvelo Studios in Lusaka, where she met with artists and survivors of gender-based violence. The session focused on the use of creative expression as a tool for empowerment and healing. The Duchess, an advocate for drawing attention to violence against women globally, also engaged in discussions with prominent Zambian women business leaders about resilience and fostering the empowerment of future generations.
The Duchess's visit aims to highlight key interests including gender equality, climate change, and education. Her itinerary includes engagements with charities such as Orbis and Sightsavers, and a visit to a health clinic in Mukuni Village that runs a trachoma elimination program. Sophie is a global ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness and a campaigner against avoidable sight loss, a cause she connects with due to her daughter Lady Louise Windsor's childhood experience with strabismus.
Earlier in her tour, on Monday, Sophie attended a reception hosted by the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness and Orbis. She wore a lime-green dress by ARossGirl x Soler Brooke, accessorized with a purple belt from Penelope Chilvers and matching green earrings, a color that aligns with the Zambian flag. This event preceded the upcoming Global Summit for Eye Health in Antigua, which aims to end avoidable sight loss by 2030.
The Duchess's trip, scheduled to conclude on Friday, September 18, will also include travel to the Lower Zambezi and Livingstone. In Lusaka, she is set to meet with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. While in Livingstone, Sophie plans to visit Victoria Falls and lay a wreath at a World War I memorial. The visit is being undertaken at the request of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
This tour follows Sophie's attendance at the Cornbury House Horse Trials, where she was seen with Zara Tindall and Princess Beatrice.