Meghan Markle and Prince Harry to visit Colombian town praised as 'symbol of anti-colonialism'

The itinerary is expected to include a visit to San Basilio de Palenque, a town founded by runaway slaves that became South America’s first “free town”.

It is now celebrated for its historic cultural links to Africa.

There, Prince Harry and Meghan are likely to see the statue of Benkos Bioho, the town’s founding father.

He was captured from Guinea-Bissau in West Africa by Portuguese slave traders in the late 16th century and taken to Cartagena where he led a resistance.

The couple are also expected to visit the Petronio Alvarez Festival in Cali, a celebration of Afro-Colombian music.

The Sussexes are understood to have chosen Colombia to see how they are protecting children from online harm.

The duke and duchess are expected to elaborate on this cause in Colombia when they meet with young leaders, notable women and politicians.

Vice President Marquez said the couple had “kindly accepted my invitation to visit our beautiful country”.

She added: “We are confident that their visit will further illuminate Colombia’s role as a beacon of culture and innovation.”

The quasi-royal tour comes as Prince Harry suggested the UK was not safe for his wife, Meghan Markle, to visit.

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Harry and Meghan are expected to visit the coastal city of Cartagena and San Basilio de Palenque, which has been awarded Unesco heritage status as the only surviving walled community founded by escaped slaves as a refuge in the 17th century.

The small town has a population of around 3,500, is home to “palenquero”, the only Spanish-based creole language in Latin America, and is a popular tourist destination.

Colombia is not part of the Commonwealth, although it has had multiple visits from working members of the Royal Family at the request of the British Government, including King Charles and the Duchess of Edinburgh.

Commentators have warned of the risks for Prince Harry and Meghan being seen to represent the current left-wing Government as its guests.