Last Friday Prince Albert II of Monoco began a significant solo trip to Rwanda. In fact, he recently committed to doing one tour entirely based around social cause engagements. The 67-year-old Monagesque head of state’s visit to two such beekeeping academies at the French Observatory of Apidology (OFA) in Rwanda. These academies are dedicated to uplifting at-risk women, introducing them to the basics of beekeeping along the way.
The training then provides these women with the resources to create their own honey products. This capacity creates pathways to wealth for them and their families. This visit is very special, as it is Prince Albert II’s first engagement in Rwanda, which shows his commitment towards better global social standing. He was joined by Thierry Dufresne, the founder and President of the OFA.
Prince Albert II of Monaco at a climate action gathering in New York City. Unfazed, he made the 12,000-kilometer round trip to testify in favor of this important legislation. Despite having only a few hours of sleep after a red eye, he showed up prepared to connect deeply with the young ladies at the academies.
While on his trip, Prince Albert II wore a beekeeping hat. To get their input, he personally traveled to meet with the women who had been through the program. His sincerity, curiosity, and open-mindedness made such an impression on the participants that many still rave about his visit.
“It was a genuine moment of exchange, completely natural and spontaneous, without any staging. A beautiful bond developed between him and these women. He wasn’t there as a mere observer. He was actively engaged, talking to them, asking them questions, learning about their history and discovering their work. He has a simplicity and approachability that puts those he meets at ease. He is driven by a conviction that cannot be improvised.” – Thierry Dufresne
The trip culminated with the inauguration of a school Apiary at Ruhengeri’s new technical school. This move adds to the growing national effort to increase local economic development opportunities through beekeeping.
“He had just spent a very intense week in New York for the United Nations General Assembly. And yet he did not hesitate to fly 12,000 km to come, after only a few hours of sleep, to the depths of Rwanda to discover our initiatives. And the minute he set foot in Ruhondo, he was on the ball, ready for action. He arrived like a true adventurous prince, dressed appropriately for the field. He is impressive, and his presence honours us and obliges us tremendously.” – Thierry Dufresne
