Meghan Markle has previously faced criticism over alleged demands made during a humanitarian trip to Rwanda in 2016, according to claims published by royal biographer Tom Bower.
At the time, Meghan had not yet married Prince Harry and was serving as a Global Ambassador for World Vision Canada.
She travelled to Rwanda to film a documentary highlighting clean water projects, including the construction of wells in rural communities. However, the trip soon became controversial behind the scenes.
Alleged list of demands
In his book, Bower claims Meghan agreed to take part in the project within half an hour — but soon after submitted a list of requirements that included first-class airline tickets, a Canadian fashion photographer, Gabor Jurina, and a personal make-up artist, American Michael Goyette.
The additional costs reportedly pushed the project beyond budget, forcing producer Brenda Surminski to withdraw from the production.
A carefully staged visit
During the four-day trip, Meghan was allegedly accompanied by “numerous suitcases of clothing” and was said to have changed outfits repeatedly between photo sessions with local children.
Bower describes extended filming sessions in which the actress was filmed “hugging, smiling and posing” in impoverished villages, while her team spent hours arranging shots.
After returning from Rwanda, Surminski reportedly said she was “shocked” by what she described as a highly staged photoshoot in rural Africa, suggesting Meghan had used the opportunity to cultivate a humanitarian image.
Fundraising results
Following the trip, Meghan hosted a fundraising event in Toronto, displaying artwork created by Rwandan children. The event reportedly raised around £9,000, enough to fund the construction of one additional well.
Wider scrutiny of World Vision
Around the same period, World Vision UK faced accusations of racial and gender discrimination — allegations the organisation denied. These claims resurfaced later as Meghan’s past involvement with the charity came under renewed scrutiny.
A spokesperson for World Vision said the organisation had not been formally investigated and would cooperate fully if required. The charity stated that the allegations originated from “a small number of former employees” and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting millions of children affected by poverty and insecurity.
End of association
Meghan Markle has had no official involvement with World Vision since 2018.
While supporters argue the Rwanda trip brought attention to critical water issues, critics continue to cite the episode as an early example of tensions between humanitarian messaging and personal image management — a theme that would later follow Meghan into royal life.
Nếu bạn muốn, tôi có thể tiếp tục: