Sophie, Countess of Wessex, Just Did Something No British Royal Has Done Before

Now that the mourning period has come to an end following Queen Elizabeth’s death, the royals are resuming their official duties. This includes Sophie (Countess of Wessex and Forfar), who made history with her latest outing.

This week, the countess took a solo trip to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, where she visited hospitals and learned more about the country’s charities. Her outing was a pretty big deal because it marked the first time a British royal has traveled to the African country.

The Countess of Wessex and Forfar had a jam-packed itinerary that began in South Kivu. On day two, she visited the Panzi Foundation (where she participated in a textiles workshop) followed by the Panzi Hospital (where she met with patients and staff).

She also stopped by City of Joy, which is a “transformational V-Day programme that supports survivors and helps equip them with the skills and confidence to take on leadership roles in their communities.”

According to the royal family, “Her Royal Highness’s visit will focus on addressing the devastating impact of sexual and gender based violence in conflict, while supporting and empowering survivors and tackling the stigma they face.”

Her trip was arranged “at the request of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.” The countess left her husband, Prince Edward, and her two children, Louise (18) and James (14), at home.

She’s totally in her element.

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