A Royal Visit of Solidarity: The Duchess of Edinburgh at Maiti Nepal
On 5th February 2025, Maiti Nepal had the immense honor of welcoming Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Edinburgh, marking a significant moment in our longstanding partnership with the UK.
During her visit, the Duchess explored a special photo exhibition showcasing King Charles III’s visit to Maiti Nepal in 1998, reflecting on decades of shared commitment to protecting vulnerable communities. She then visited our Child Protection Center, where she interacted with children and listened to the courageous stories of survivors.
At the Women’s Rehabilitation Center, she participated in a focus group session with survivors, gaining deeper insight into their experiences and resilience.
During the visit at the Workshop, a survivor, now 32, who met the then Prince of Wales at the age of five, presented the Duchess with a handcrafted embroidered cushion as a gift for King Charles III. Alongside the cushion, she included a heartfelt note and a photograph of their first meeting, thanking His Majesty for his enduring support to Maiti Nepal. The Duchess was visibly moved by the gesture, expressing admiration for the survivor’s craftsmanship and the profound impact of the King’s previous visit.
Later, the other survivors working at Maiti’s Workshop expressed gratitude by gifting her an intricate breadcraft, symbolizing the goodwill relationship between Nepal and the UK. She also observed classes at Teresa Academy and witnessed the children’s talents in orchestra, vocal music, and a vibrant cultural dance performance.
The visit concluded with a meaningful discussion between the Duchess and our Founder/Chairperson, Ms. Anuradha Koirala highlighting key interventions for survivors of sexual exploitation, gender-based violence, and human trafficking. Emphasizing sustainability, Maiti Nepal aims to establish an endowment fund.
This visit reaffirms the shared commitment to protecting and empowering survivors, strengthening the bridge between Nepal and the UK in the fight against trafficking and exploitation.
