Charity shocker: The Charity Commission has launched a formal probe into Sentebale, the well-known charity co-founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso of Lesotho. The watchdog is investigating serious concerns over how the charity is run and governed.
Investigation Sparks After Allegations
On 3 April 2025, the Charity Commission revealed the compliance case was triggered by complaints from unnamed sources. These have since been backed up by public allegations from Dr Sophie Chandauka, Sentebale’s current Chair, who has pointed fingers at Prince Harry himself.
The watchdog is now digging deeper. It confirmed it is “engaging directly with those who raised the concerns to gather evidence” and is examining whether current and former trustees, including Dr Chandauka and possibly Prince Harry, have stuck to their legal duties under charity law.
What’s Sentebale All About?
Founded in 2006, Sentebale supports vulnerable children and young people in Lesotho and Botswana, focusing on those affected by HIV/AIDS. The charity has won international praise thanks to its royal backers and its mission tackling tough health and social issues in southern Africa.
But with this fresh inquiry, Sentebale’s leadership and day-to-day running are being thrown into the spotlight like never before.
Charity Commission’s Role Explained
The Commission stressed it isn’t here to settle personal beefs or act as a court, but it does have a statutory duty to make sure charities comply with UK law and that trustees act in the best interests of those they serve.
“Our focus is on governance and trustee accountability. In this case, we are assessing whether the trustees—past and present—have properly fulfilled their responsibilities to ensure the charity delivers on its stated mission,” the Commission said.
Sentebale was officially notified of the case on 2 April 2025, after an initial probe found enough grounds to dig deeper.
Yet No Wrongdoing Confirmed
Importantly, the opening of this investigation doesn’t mean anyone has been found guilty of mismanagement. It’s part of routine checks when potential issues are flagged.
So far, Sentebale has not commented publicly on the Commission’s announcement. It’s unclear whether Prince Harry or Sentebale’s trustees will respond to the unfolding investigation.
The charity world and royal watchers alike will be watching closely, as this probe could set new standards for governance in high-profile charities.
If you have any information about the case, the Charity Commission urges you to get in touch via official channels.
