Sophie's anything but blue! Beaming Duchess of Edinburgh is radiant in a navy flowing skirt and silk blouse as she kicks off final day of Zambia tour with visit to eye clinic

The Duchess of Edinburgh concluded her intensive multi-day official visit to Zambia with a poignant and impactful stop in the tourist capital of Livingstone, highlighting vital public health initiatives in rural communities. Dressed in an elegant navy flowing skirt and silk blouse, Sophie arrived at the Mukuni Rural Health Centre on the final leg of her tour, where she engaged directly with medical personnel, community volunteers, and patients. As the Global Ambassador for the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness, the 61-year-old royal placed a special emphasis on Zambia's ongoing national campaigns to eliminate trachoma, a painful and blinding bacterial infection that has historically affected vulnerable rural populations. During her tour of the clinic, the Duchess observed firsthand how local health workers and international NGO partners, including Sightsavers, coordinate distribution networks and surgical interventions to treat and prevent the disease. Interactive demonstrations and briefings showcased how grassroots education and early diagnosis have drastically reduced infection rates across Southern Province. The atmosphere at the health centre turned joyful as the Duchess shared lighthearted moments and dances with local residents and health volunteers whose lives have been transformed by restored vision. Beyond her eye-health advocacy at Mukuni, the Duchess's packed itinerary underscored the enduring bilateral and developmental partnership between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Zambia. Earlier in the week, her schedule featured high-level diplomatic engagements in Lusaka, including an official audience with President Hakainde Hichilema and First Lady Mutinta Hichilema. Discussions during these meetings centered on strengthening institutional ties, promoting gender equality, and supporting sustainable economic development. The royal visitor also ventured outside urban centers to appreciate the nation's rich natural heritage, partici