On behalf of the Council and members of the Royal African Society, we sent yesterday a letter to our Royal Patron, the Prince of Wales, expressing our most sincere condolences to him and the Royal Family on the death of Her Majesty the Queen.  It is a sad moment for Britain and the world.

The Queen was the Society’s Royal Patron from the time of her accession until 2017, when Prince William took up the role.  Throughout that long period, she took the closest interest in African matters, visiting the continent often and meeting many thousands from all walks of life.  Her connection with Commonwealth African leaders from independence onwards was important to both sides, and her commitment to maintaining the link between all the peoples of the Commonwealth was firm and lasting, whatever the state of political relations between governments.  Her ability to listen, connect, understand and not to judge created a very real respect and affection for her in many parts of the continent, witnessed in the widespread public response in Africa to her passing.

The Society will continue with its mission to promote African voices in the UK and beyond, but we are all the poorer for the passing of Her Majesty the Queen, who listened.  May she rest in peace.

Arunma Oteh, Chairperson

Nick Westcott, Director