The Duchess of Cambridge forced her husband off the road – in the name of testing his driving skills on a simulator.
Kate was in fits of laughter as she created extreme weather, pot-holes and manipulated lighting levels as William drove a truck used to train young men in Jamaica.
The couple were visiting the Caribbean Military Technical Training Institute near Montego Bay and for the second day their presence in Jamaica prompted protests, with around a dozen members of Jamaica’s Rastafarian community demanding reparations from the Royal Family.
Automotive student Oneil Haughton joined the duchess as she sat at a computer screen a few feet from duke creating hazards for him to deal with.
He said: ‘She was excited, she was changing his experiences of the weather, changing the time of day – she was enjoying it. She could make it slippery, she could do anything and she loved it, she said it was really good.’
The institute is home to a programme for young men needing direction in their lives who are taught to drive heavy goods vehicles or repair cars as way of giving them a focus.
Staff Sergeant Dave Morgan who was overseeing William’s driving said: ‘He did well, he was trying and found the gears and dealt with the critical weather.
‘The duchess set up some strong cross wind and caused his vehicle to turn over – he was laughing.’
The couple met students who gave demonstrations of repairing a car and a separate engine and they joined a discussion with the young men and their families about the course.
Kate was in fits of laughter as she created extreme weather, pot-holes and manipulated lighting levels as William drove a truck used to train young men in Jamaica
The Duchess of Cambridge forced her husband off the road – in the name of testing his driving skills on a simulator.
The couple were visiting the Caribbean Military Technical Training Institute near Montego Bay and for the second day their presence in Jamaica prompted protests, with around a dozen members of Jamaica’s Rastafarian community demanding reparations from the Royal Family
Automotive student Oneil Haughton joined the duchess as she sat at a computer screen a few feet from duke creating hazards for him to deal with
The institute is home to a programme for young men needing direction in their lives who are taught to drive heavy goods vehicles or repair cars as way of giving them a focus
Staff Sergeant Dave Morgan who was overseeing William’s driving said: ‘He did well, he was trying and found the gears and dealt with the critical weather
Major Georgette Grant McDonald, director of the institute, said more than 3,200 young men had been trained since the programme began in 2012 : ‘Youth and community engagement is one of the strategic lines of effort of the Jamaican Defence Force. We see it as a means of changing the culture of crime and violence in Jamaica.
‘So when we empower these youth with a skill, with workplace readiness, techniques and also with positive thinking it gives them hope, it gives them an option.’
Drumming from the protest group could be heard inside the military compound and Ras Iyah V, a leading member of Jamaica’s Rastafari Nyahbinghi community, said about the abolition of slavery: ‘In 1838 it is said that £20 million was given to the slave masters because they were going to lose their slaves.
‘What has ever been given to us as a people for all these years of slavery and colonialism – that’s why we are here.
‘We are here to protest against any British monarchy descendant coming to Jamaica without being prepared to apologise for slavery and colonialism. We can only forgive people who acknowledge that what they did was wrong and are willing to repair the breach of the wrongs they have committed.’
He added: ‘And today the British monarchy has a lot of African artefacts in their possession – they still bathe in the wealth that was extracted out of the blood, sweat and tears and lives of our people and we have never been compensated for any form of enslavement.
‘We have never had an apology coming from the British monarchy to say they are sorry for slavery and colonialism.’
Meanwhile, this evening the Duke of Cambridge has faced the issue of Britain’s historic role in the slave trade head on, describing it as ‘abhorrent’ and a ‘stain on our history’ in a keynote speech alongside his wife Kate at a state dinner this evening.
On the fifth day of their tour of the Caribbean, the future king expressed his disgust at the ‘appalling atrocity’ that has left such a heavy legacy in Jamaica and expressed his ‘profound sorrow’ that it had ever happened to Jamaican dignitaries.
He also referred to his father’s previous condemnation of slavery, saying: ‘Anniversaries are also a moment for reflection, particularly this week with the International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
‘I strongly agree with my father, The Prince of Wales, who said in Barbados last year that the appalling atrocity of slavery forever stains our history.
‘I want to express my profound sorrow. Slavery was abhorrent. And it should never have happened. ‘
He continued: ‘While the pain runs deep, Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage and fortitude.
‘The strength and shared sense of purpose of the Jamaican people, represented in your flag and motto, celebrate an invincible spirit.
‘It is this same spirit that spurred on the Windrush generation, who came to the United Kingdom to help rebuild after the Second World War.
‘We are forever grateful for the immense contribution that this generation and their descendants have made to British life, which continues to enrich and improve our society.
‘I’m delighted that a national monument acknowledging and celebrating the Windrush generation by Jamaican artist, Basil Watson, will be unveiled later this year in Waterloo Station in London.’
The Duchess of Cambridge dazzled in diamonds lent to her by the Queen for a glittering state dinner tonight
Pictured: Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Patricia Allen during the evening dinner
Prince William was suave in black tie as they arrived at dinner thrown in their honour by the Governor General at King’s House, his Kingston residence – the most glamorous event of their so far five-day Caribbean tour
William and Kate (left) re-enacted a picture of the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh (right) when they first visited Jamaica in 1953, as they walked down the grand central steps inside the house
Pictured: William and Kate going down the historic stairs at a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica, on day five of their Royal Tour of the Caribbean
On William and Kate’s arrival they joined a small reception with the Governor General Sir Patrick Allen and his wife Lady Allen, the Prime Minister Andrew Holness and his wife Juliet, Matthew , the Leader of the Opposition, Mark Holding – who has been politely vocal about his opposition to the British monarchy, as well as the Foreign Minister and Chief Justices.
During the emotional speech, William also said he and his wife were ‘very pleased’ to be on our first official visit to Jamaica, adding: ‘All my family have enjoyed their visits here so much. They have waxed lyrical about the warmth and sense of fun of the Jamaican people and the beauty of this island.
‘Already in our short time here, Catherine and I are delighted to have felt what Bob Marley described so many years ago – the spirit of ‘One love’ that Jamaica has given to the world and which makes this country so special.
‘I’m particularly pleased tonight to convey the very best wishes from my grandmother, The Queen of Jamaica, on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee.
‘It is no secret that The Queen has a deep affection for Jamaica, forged on her very first visit here with my grandfather, The Duke of Edinburgh, in 1953.
‘And likewise I have been touched to hear today from Jamaicans, young and old, about their affection for The Queen.
‘Her dedication, commitment, and sense of duty to the Commonwealth family is deeply admired. She may be my actual grandmother, but everyone counts her as their grandmother too. And I’m ok with that!
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are visiting Belize, Jamaica and The Bahamas on behalf of Her Majesty The Queen on the occasion of the Platinum Jubilee. The 8 day tour takes place between Saturday 19th March and Saturday 26th March and is their first joint official overseas tour since the onset of COVID-19 in 2020
The Duke of Cambridge has faced the issue of Britain’s historic role in the slave trade head on, describing it as ‘abhorrent’ and a ‘stain on our history’ in a keynote speech alongside his wife Kate at a state dinner this evening
Pictured: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge during a dinner hosted by Patrick Allen, Governor General of Jamaica, at King’s House, in Kingston, Jamaica, on day five of the royal tour of the Caribbean on behalf of the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee
Pictured: The Duke of Cambridge speaks on stage during a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica at King’s House
The Duchess of Cambridge arrives for a dinner hosted by Patrick Allen, Governor General of Jamaica on Wednesday
Kate wore a green dress by Jenny Packham with priceless jewellery loaned by Her Majesty for her and Prince William’s first visit to Jamaica. She also sported her Royal Family Order and the GCVO Star
The Duchess of Cambridge wore her hair in a stunning updo and kept her make-up natural, with the Queen’s loaned earrings on full display
Kate’s earrings and bracelet comes from Her Majesty the Queen’s Emerald Tassel Parure, which consist of a matching set of earrings, a necklace, bracelet and a ring
The floor-length gown featured a ruffled bardot detailing and emerald coloured sequins throughout the dress
Pictured: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge (left) are greeted by Patrick Allen, Governor General of Jamaica and his wife Patricia as they arrive for a dinner hosted by the Governor General, at King’s House, in Kingston, Jamaica
‘And of course, as The Queen marks seventy years on the throne, this is also a very special year for Jamaica, as you celebrate your sixtieth anniversary of independence. Now that’s double the excuse for a party!’
The Duchess of Cambridge dazzled in diamonds for the state dinner and wore an off the shoulder green dress by British designer Jenny Packham paired with earrings and a bracelet that were borrowed from Her Majesty the Queen’s Emerald Tassel Parure. She also sported her Royal Family Order and the GCVO Star.
Prince William was suave in black tie as they arrived at dinner thrown in their honour by the Governor General at King’s House, his Kingston residence – the most glamorous event of their so far five-day Caribbean tour.
The couple also re-enacted a picture of the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh when they first visited Jamaica in 1953, as they walked down the grand central steps inside the house.
The now 95-year-old monarch visited King’s House on her first Commonwealth tour as monarch when they were guests of the then Governor, Sir Hugh Foot.
It comes as Jamaica’s Prime Minister warned the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge that his nation is ‘moving on’ and intends to ditch the monarchy during a tense meeting this afternoon following anti-monarchy protests on the Caribbean island as its politicians push for a 2022 independence vote and slave trade reparations.
Earlier, William played football in a match where he was joined by England star Raheem Sterling, who was born on the island. The couple also met the Jamaican bobsleigh team, who finished 28th in the recent Winter Olympics, on their week-long tour that began in Belize, is currently in Jamaica and will end in The Bahamas.
The couple also broke the Buckingham Palace ‘no selfie’ rule to pose with the Olympians. The Queen is known not to like them because she prefers eye contact – and will politely decline – but younger royals such as William, Kate, Harry and Meghan appear to enjoy them.
The Cambridges arrived to a full ceremonial welcome in Kingston yesterday – and a protest by up to 100 people outside the airport calling for the island to become a republic and for Britain to pay reparations for slavery.
Prince William and Kate visited Spanish Town Hospital, which is celebrating its 70th birthday this year, to hear first-hand how the pandemic has impacted the country’s healthcare system
The royal couple are spotted viewing the newborns wall on the maternity ward during their visit to the hospital on Wednesday
A general view of the newborns wall on the maternity ward. William and Kate also met doctors, nurses and other members of staff to discuss their experiences on the Covid-19 frontline
The Duchess of Cambridge is seen wearing a floral patterned face mask during a visit to the Spanish Town Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, to meet doctors, nurses and other members of staff
A member of staff gestures towards the newborns wall on the maternity ward in Spanish Town Hospital, Jamaica, today
William, Kate and the Minister of the Health and Wellness, Dr. the Hon. Christopher Tufon, prepare to unveil a plaque during the royal couple’s visit to Spanish Town Hospital today
The Duke of Cambridge and the Jamaican Minister of Health and Wellness unveil a plaque as Kate watches during the visit
Prince William and Kate walk and speak with the Jamaican Minister of Health and Wellness at the Spanish Town Hospital today
The Duchess of Cambridge is seen during a visit to Spanish Town Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, to meet doctors, nurses and other members of staff
Staff are pictured ahead of Prince William and Kate’s visit to Spanish Town Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, on Wednesday
The Duchess of Cambridge shakes hands with members of staff during her visit to Spanish Town Hospital with Prince William
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge engage in discussion during a visit to Spanish Town Hospital in Kingston, Jamaica, today
Kate, the Duchess of Cambridge, waves as she arrives to the Spanish Town Hospital on the fifth day of her Caribbean tour
The Duchess of Cambridge has given her first speech (pictured above) of the Caribbean tour praising the ‘crucial role of teachers at the front line in shaping society’
Kate is seen chatting with schoolchildren during her visit to Shortwood Teacher Training College in Kingston, Jamaica, on Wednesday
William and Kate are presented with a gift following the speech, which shone a spotlight on the country’s work on the early years development of children
In a series of photographs on Instagram which appeared to have been shared by the Duchess of Cambridge, the couple could be seen chatting with young students at the school
Kate wore a £1,945 Alexander McQueen trouser suit as she and her husband Prince William posed with Andrew Holness and his wife Juliet at Vale Royal, their official residence in Kingston, Jamaica’s capital
The Duke of Cambridge Prince William and wife Kate, Duchess of Cambridge pictured during the official meeting with the Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness and his wife Juliet. Pictured: Kate and Mrs Holness on the red carpet
Some want Prince William to apologise and it is understood that William will publicly address the issue of slavery in a keynote speech tonight as they were accused of benefitting from the ‘blood, tears and sweat’ of slaves.
But while the questions of the island’s links to the British monarchy continues, William and Kate were welcomed as friends and travelled to reggae legend Marley’s house and now a museum to the musical genius, and played drums with some reggae musicians in the courtyard where Jamaica’s biggest superstar learned to perform.
There was mass hysteria in the neighbourhood as the royal couple were mobbed by crowds who chanted: ‘We love you, we love you’ as they walked to Trench Town Culture Yard and Museum in Jamaica’s capital.
Earlier the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge tried out a bobsleigh made for two under the watchful eye of Jamaica’s latest Cool Runnings team. When William clambered into the training sleigh during a visit to Bob Marley’s old Kingston neighbourhood, Kate did not hesitate and jumped in behind him.
Chatting to women and men from the bobsleigh team they talked about the popular movie Cool Runnings which immortalised the 1988 Jamaican Winter Olympics team. The duke, who is touring the Caribbean with the duchess to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, said: ‘One of our favourites, ah so good.’
The future king also played with one of his sporting heroes in a match with local young footballers. Kingston-born England international Raheem Sterling received a rapturous applause whenever he touched the ball and there were screams for the duke – and a few ironic ones when he fluffed a shot.
Jamaica’s Prime Minister warned the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge that his nation is ‘moving on’ and intends to ditch the monarchy during a tense meeting this afternoon
Footage showed William and Kate arriving in a silver SUV before they greeted Mr and Mrs Holness outside their official residence this afternoon
The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness presents the Duke of Cambridge with a bottle of Appleton Estate Ruby during a meeting at his office in Kingston, Jamaica
Kate and William posed for photos with Mr and Mrs Holness in front of Jamaican flags, before the prime minister told the royal couple that there are ‘issues here which as you know are unresolved’
The Jamaican Prime Minister’s tweet following his meeting with the royal couple, where he presented Prince William with a special blend Ruby Appleton Rum
Prince William and Kate Middleton, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, during a visit to Shortwood Teacher’s College in Kingston, Jamaica, on day five of their Royal Tour of the Caribbean
Kate wore an Alexander McQueen trouser suit for the first time on her and William’s royal tour of the Caribbean, which ends this week
The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness presents the Duke of Cambridge with a bottle of Appleton Estate Ruby during a meeting at his office in Kingston, Jamaica
Alexander McQueen is one of Kate’s favourite labels. Today was the first time that she has worn the label during the Caribbean tour. She added an orange blouse by Ridley London as well as Maria Black earrings
Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, signs the visitor’s book at the Vale Royal, the official residence of the prime minister, in Kingston, Jamaica
The Duke of Cambridge signs the visitor book during a meeting with the prime minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness
Kate was pictured standing by her husband as he too signed the visitor’s book inside Vale Royal, the Jamaican PM’s official residence
Kate rests on her haunches as she speaks to a little girl at Shortwood Teacher’s College in Kingston during her and William’s official tour of Jamaica
Juliet Holness walked next to Kate Middleton on the red carpet at Vale Royal as her husband William spoke to the prime minister Mr Holness
The pair engaged in conversation on the red carpet as they wore contrasting outfits for the high-profile event on Wednesday
The Jamaican bobsleigh stars selfie with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge and Prince William, Duke of Cambridge in Trench Town, the birthplace of reggae music
And this was the result, with the Jamaican bobsleigh stars describing the Cambridges as their ‘new teammates’
The Queen is driven into the grounds of Windsor Castle to walk her dogs today as Jamaica considers cutting its ties with the monarch within months
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge shake hands with locals during a visit Trench Town, the birthplace of reggae in Kingston, Jamaica, on the fourth day of their Caribbean tour
The Duchess of Cambridge places her palm on a child’s hands as crowds turned out to meet the royal couple who will one day be king and queen
The Duchess of Cambridge smiles to the crowds of people as the royals continue their tour of the Caribbean in Jamaica
The royals (pictured on the left hand side of the image) were mobbed by Jamaicans who wanted to see them
The royal couple greeted a huge number of locals that turned out to welcome them to the area on Tuesday
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s royal tour of the Caribbean so far
Prince William and Kate sit in a bobsleigh as they meet the Jamaican team during a visit to Trench Town, the birthplace of reggae music, on Tuesday
And in the evening William and Kate played the bongos during a visit to Trench Town Culture Yard Museum where Bob Marley used to live and wrote No Woman No Cry
The Cambridges’ pose next to a statue at Bob Marley during the visit on Tuesday – the first day of their tour of Jamaica
Prince William runs with a football as he participates in a game with local players in Trench Town on the first day of a tour of Jamaica, where he was joined by England star Raheem Sterling
The couple, though, were kept well away from protestors outside the British High Commission building (above) as they arrived for an official meeting with the Governor General of Jamaica Patrick Allen
Queen Elizabeth visits Sam Sharpe Square on February 20, 2002, while on a visit to Montego Bay in Jamaica
Mr Holness told William and Kate today: ‘We are very very happy to have you. I hope you will see the warm welcome of the people. Jamaica is a very free and liberal country, and the people are very expressive.
‘I am certain that you will have seen the spectrum of expressions yesterday. there are issues here which are as you would know unresolved.
‘But your presence gives an opportunity for those issues to be placed in context put front and centre and to be addressed as best as we can.
‘But Jamaica is as you would see a country that is very proud of our history and very proud of what we have achieved. We are moving on and we intend to attain in short order… our goals and fulfill our true ambitions as an independent, developed, prosperous country.’
Earlier, the couple were accused by protesters of benefitting from the ‘blood, tears and sweat’ of slaves.
How the Queen dislikes ‘protocol breaching’ selfies but her grandchildren and their wives are getting in on the act more and more
The royals have been told to avoid selfies since the advent of mobile phones.
Her Majesty is said to dislike them and will decline.
In 2014, following a meeting with the Queen at Buckingham Palace, US ambassador Matthew Barzun revealed they discussed the issue.
He told Tatler magazine: ‘She was essentially saying, ‘I miss eye contact’.’
However, the Queen’s children and grandchildren can’t help but to sometimes break the rules.
William, who once said he was ‘allergic’ to selfies, has taken part in them regularly. His wife Kate is the same.
Before he quit as a front line royal Harry would do them the most, as would his wife Meghan.
And the Advocates Network coalition of Jamaican politicians, business leaders, doctors and musicians wrote an open letter detailing 60 reasons why the monarchy should compensate the country.
It is now understood that Jamaica’s decoupling has been discussed at the ‘highest levels’ in government, with one political source even saying a senior figure had been appointed to oversee the changeover.
A royal aide said that on the issue of a republic: ‘The duke and duchess say it is a matter for the people and government of Jamaica.’
BAZAAR.com also reported that the government has started the ‘long and arduous process’ and aims for it to be completed by August 6 – exactly 60 years after Jamaica gained its independence from the UK.
Marlene Malahoo Forte, who was Jamaica’s attorney general until January, in December told the local newspaper Jamaica Observer that she had received instructions from Prime Minister Andrew Holness to reform the constitution to become a republic.
A senior government official speaking to Bazaar.com said it will be ‘full steam ahead in the coming weeks and months’, and another source added that while there had been ‘some pushback’ from members of parliament it was not the majority.
It was unclear last night how the plans would now progress, as both sources said there are no plans for a referendum, which would be required under Jamaica’s constitution and makes the move more complicated than in smaller Barbados – which was able to make the change via an act of parliament.
The latest comments came despite William and Kate being greeted by cheers during their visit to Trench Town to greet young footballers and the Jamaican bobsleigh team, who finished 28th in the recent Winter Olympics.
Following their trip, the royal couple posted on their official Twitter account: ‘What a incredible day at Trench Town – the birthplace of reggae music in the heart of Kingston.’
They were earlier met by dignitaries and members of the military as they touched down at a windy Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, with Kate donning the yellow of the country’s flag.
The Jamaican flag and the Royal Ensign also hung from the cockpit window as the Cambridges walked down the stairs of the RAF Voyager aircraft.
While the duke took the salute from a guard of honour formed by Jamaica Defence Force troops, the duchess stood nearby under a marquee that shook in the wind as she held onto the hem of her yellow maxi-gown.
Kate was pictured smiling as she stood next to Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson-Smith and Jamaican politician and former Miss World Lisa Hanna at the official welcoming.
The royal visits to Caribbean nations are seen as an effort to try and dissuade other ex-British colonies – including Belize and The Bahamas – from following in Barbados’ example of removing the Queen as their head of state.
The couple, though, were kept well away from protestors outside the British High Commission building as they arrived for an official meeting with the Governor General of Jamaica Patrick Allen shortly after touching down on the Caribbean island.
Jamaican human rights advocate Opal Adisa organised a protest outside the premises hours before their arrival amid calls for the monarchy to pay reparations for slavery and human rights abuses.
The Bahamas National Reparations Committee also released a statement calling for a ‘full and formal apology’, adding: ‘The time is now for reparations.’
Prince William and Kate, Duchess of Cambridge, leave the RAF Voyager aircraft at Norman Manley International Airport as they continue their tour of the Caribbean
Kate, pictured in a different outfit to the yellow dress she wore arriving in the country, walks into Trench Town in a multi-coloured outfit
The Duchess of Cambridge waves to local residents in Trench Town during the fourth day of the royal couple’s tour of the Caribbean
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Kamina Johnson-Smith and Jamaican politician and former Miss World Lisa Hanna stand together at the airport for the royal couple’s official welcome
William and Kate arrive for an official meeting with the Governor General of Jamaica shortly after leaving the airport on Tuesday
Prince William at the Governor Generals in Kingston at the British High Commission. The couple were kept well away from protestors outside
Kate smiles as she sits during an official meeting with the Governor General of Jamaica shortly after touching down on the Caribbean island
William and Kate pictured during an official meeting with Governor General Patrick Allen, who represents the British crown in Jamaica
Prince William pictured giving a medal to the Chief Medical Officer of Jamaica, Jacqueline Bisasor-McKenzie at King’s House, Jamaica on Tuesday
Prince William during a visit with the Governor General of Jamaica Sir Patrick Allen at Kings House in Kingston
The government last year announced plans to ask Britain for compensation for forcibly transporting an estimated 600,000 Africans to work on sugar cane and banana plantations that created fortunes for British slave holders.
Jamaica lawmaker Mike Henry has proposed reparations package of £7.6billion ($10 billion).
He has said the figure is derived from a £20million payment the UK government made in 1837 to compensate slave owners in British colonies for the emancipation of enslaved people following the 1833 abolition of slavery.
Anti-colonial sentiment has been growing across the Caribbean against the background of the Black Lives Matter movement, which has inspired many around the globe to campaign for equality.
Protesters gathered outside the British High Commission in Jamaican capital Kingston, with one placard held by a little girl reading: ‘Kings, Queens and Princesses and Princes belong in fairytales not in Jamaica!’
A royal source said the duke was aware of the protests and was expected to acknowledge the issue of slavery in a speech on Wednesday night during a dinner hosted by the Governor General of Jamaica.
The couple were the subject of protests in Belize, the first stop of their Caribbean tour, with opposition to a royal tour of a chocolate farm forcing the event to be cancelled and hastily arranged at another site.
Mr Golding has been invited to a royal event in his St Andrew South constituency and the Governor Generals’ dinner where William will give his speech.
Raheem Sterling is seen playing football with local players ahead of the arrival of William and Kate in Trench Town, Kingston
Raheem Sterling speaks with children during a visit to Trench Town, the birthplace of Reggae music, on day four of the Platinum Jubilee Royal Tour
The footballer spoke with local residents and children as he played football ahead of the arrival of the royal couple
Raheem Sterling looks on while talking with people waiting for the arrival of Prince William and Kate in Trench Town, Jamaica
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge travel to Trench Town, where they meet England and Man City star, Raheem Sterling and also join some young football players
Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling with young footballers in Trench Town, Kingston, ahead of a visit from the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
Locals gather outside a fence awaiting the arrival of William and Kate in Trench Town – the birthplace of reggae music
Members of the local community jostle for a viewpoint ahead of the arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to Trenchtown in Kingston, Jamaica
People wait for the eagerly arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge in Trench Town on Tuesday as part of their Caribbean tour
People calling for slavery reparations, protest outside the entrance of the British High Commission during the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge
People calling for slavery reparations protest outside the entrance of the British High Commission during the royal couple’s visit
Aston Villa’s Leon Bailey ahead of the visit of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge to meet young footballers during a visit to Trenchtown in Kingston
Members of the Jamaican bobsleigh team wait ahead of the arrival of the royal couple in Trench Town, Kingston, on Tuesday
Members of the community at Trench Town, where the royal couple will meet England and Man City star Raheem Sterling and also join some young football players
Kate smiles as she speaks with former Miss World during day four of her and William’s tour of the Caribbean
Minister of Foreign Affairs in Jamaica Senator Kamina Johnson Smith (L) stands with Prince William and Kate as they are greeted by guests upon arrival
Kate is greeted by government officials upon arriving at the Norman Manley International Airport
Kate smiled as she wore a dress in the colour of Jamaican yellow with a white clutch bag and heels shortly after departing the aircraft
Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, walks away from the royal couple’s aircraft shortly after touching down at the airport in the country’s capital
Kate wore a yellow dress as she bid to impress the Caribbean island ahead of a two-day tour before the couple fly to the Bahamas on Thursday
Flags are shown hanging out of the RAF Voyager aircraft’s cockpit window as William and Kate descend the stairs to be greeted by dignitaries
Prince WIlliam and Kate greet dignitaries after exiting their aircraft at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica
The couple were pictured smiling as they were met by dignitaries and a red carpet at their airport ahead of a two-day tour of the island
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are visiting Belize, Jamaica and The Bahamas on behalf the Queen, who is celebrating her Platinum Jubilee
Kate pictured alongside dignitaries at the airport today as the royal couple were met by members of the military after touching down
Kate laughs with dignitaries during the the official arrival at Norman Manley International Airport today
The Duchess of Cambridge (pictured) arrives at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica, on day four of their tour of the Caribbean
Kate (pictured) wore a yellow dress as she touched down at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston ahead of a two-day tour of Jamaica
Kate was all smiles as she wore a yellow dress with white earrings as the royal couple began a two-day tour of Jamaica on Tuesday
The Jamaican flag and Royal Ensign hang out the window of the cockpit as the royal couple arrive in Jamaica on Tuesday
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge pictured on the steps of their plane after landing in Jamaica ahead of the latest leg of their royal tour
Prince William greets members of the military shortly after arriving in Jamaica ahead of a two-day tour of the Caribbean island
The royal couple were greeted with a military guard of honour at Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport on Tuesday
The royal couple wore a mask as they entered via a red carpet after travelling from Norman Manley International Airport
The Duke of Cambridge arrives at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica, on day four of their tour of the Caribbean on behalf of the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee
Prince William speaks with members of the military shortly after landing in Jamaica ahead of a two-day tour of the Caribbean island
Prince William and a member of the military at the official welcoming at Norman Manley International Airport
Prince William stands as he and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge continue their tour of the Caribbean
Protestors outside the British High Commission in the island nation’s capital Kingston on Tuesday held placards calling for the royals to apologise
William speaks with members of the military in a guard of honour after landing in Jamaica as part of a tour of the Caribbean
He told The Gleaner, a national Jamaican newspaper: ‘I would hope that I get the opportunity during the events that I will be attending to have that dialogue with them and to bring it to their attention in a courteous and respectful way that this is the view held by many Jamaicans.’
The leader of the People’s National Party added: ‘And that I think it would be helpful both to the Royal family and Jamaica for them to consider this as a means of starting to move forward to a new future.’
The Prince of Wales addressed the ‘appalling atrocity of slavery’, describing it as something ‘which forever stains our history’ last November when he attended the ceremony marking Barbados’ historic transition to a republic.
The British royal family were involved in the transportation and selling of people for profit for centuries with Elizabeth I becoming involved in the lucrative dealings of John Hawkins, one of Britain’s first slave traders in the 16th century.
When his first adventure proved successful and his ships returned laden with goods she supported his future expeditions by providing vessels to carry the human cargo.
The connections between the royal family and slavery continued with Charles II who encouraged the expansion of the slave trade.
He granted a charter to a group of men, the Royal Adventurers, who later became the Royal African Company and the monarch and the Duke of York invested their private funds in the venture.
Prince William and Kate are seen at Philip S. W Goldson International Airport as they depart Belize and board a flight to Jamaica during their tour of the Caribbean
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge ahead of boarding a plane departing from during two-day visit on their tour of the Caribbean on behalf of the Queen to mark her Platinum Jubilee
As the country marks its 60th anniversary of independence, locals were making their voices heard as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge embarked on a series of outings in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee (pictured: protest in Kingston today)
A handout photo issued by Advocates Network, who have organised a protest outside the British High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica, demanding reparations from the Royal Family on Prince William and Kate’s tour
Two protesters are seen holding up signs with one addressed to the Queen, Prince Charles and William, reading ‘the time for taking from us is over, yours truly, Jamaica’ outside the British High Commission in Kingston, Jamaica
Ms Adisa, a retired professor in her 60s, said: ‘Kate and William are beneficiaries, so they are, in fact, complicit because they are positioned to benefit specifically from our ancestors, and we’re not benefitting from our ancestors.
‘The luxury and the lifestyle that they have had and that they continue to have, traipsing all over the world for free with no expense, that is a result of my great, great grandmother and grandfather, their blood and tears and sweat.’
She joined calls for an apology, saying the monarchy should provide ‘economic social reparation’, such as ‘building us proper hospitals, providing and making sure that our children are educated through college level, and making sure land is equally distributed’.
Ms Adisa said an apology would be the ‘first step towards healing and reconciliation’.
She continued: ‘You know, we don’t have anything personally against Kate and Prince William, and even the Queen, for that matter, but we’re simply saying you’ve done wrong, and it is way past time that you admit that you’ve done wrong and when you do, redressing it.
‘The fact that our government is spending money to help provide security and finance for the duke and duchess, who are wealthy, is outrageous, it’s criminal.
‘Because the Caribbean is fed up, the same thing happened in Belize. We’re just saying enough is enough, we’ve been quiet, we have been nice.
‘Enough is enough, let’s deal with this racism and this discrimination.’
The protest began ahead of the Cambridges’ arrival in Jamaica on Tuesday, where they will stay until Thursday when they depart for the Bahamas.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge at a reception hosted by the Governor General of Belize at Cahal Pech yesterday
William and Kate yesterday at the Mayan ruins at Cahal Pech in Belize, hosted by Belize’s Governor General Froyla Tzalam
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge dressed to impress at a reception hosted by the Governor General of Belize yesterday
The Duchess of Cambridge speaks with guests as she attends a special reception at the Mayan ruins at Cahal Pech yesterday
The open letter, quoted by The Independent newspaper, says: ‘We note with great concern your visit to our country Jamaica, during a period when we are still in the throes of a global pandemic and bracing for the full impact of another global crisis associated with the Russian/Ukraine war.
‘Many Jamaicans are unaware of your visit as they struggle to cope with the horrendous fallout of the Covid-19 pandemic, exacerbated by pre-existing social and economic hardships inherited from our colonial past.
‘We also note that your visit is part of the celebrations to mark the 70th Anniversary (Platinum Jubilee) of the coronation of your grandmother – and the 60th Anniversary of Jamaica’s Independence.
‘We see no reason to celebrate 70 years of the ascension of your grandmother to the British throne because we believe her leadership, and that of her predecessors, have perpetuated the greatest human rights tragedy in the history of humankind.’
Also today, dancehall musician Beenie Man – real name Anthony Moses Davis – said Jamaicans do not want Prince William to visit because they are still ‘controlled by the British’ and the royals are ‘not doing anything for us’.
The Jamaican artist told ITV’s Good Morning Britain: ‘We are just here, controlled by the British, ruled by the British law when you go in the court, it’s all about the Queen and the Queen serve and the Queen this and that.
The Duchess of Cambridge drinks water from a vine at the British Army Training Support Unit (BATSUB) in Belize yesterday
The Duchess of Cambridge was pictured learning tropical forest survival techniques with the Duke in Belize yesterday
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visit the British Army Training Support Unit (BATSUB) in Belize yesterday
The Duke and Duchess visit the British Army Training Support Unit (BATSUB) in Belize yesterday
The couple were taught how to survive, live and fight in the jungle environment by troops in Belize yesterday
‘But what are they doing for Jamaica? They’re not doing anything for us. If Harry was coming people would react different, people are going to meet Harry, but William… we don’t want to see that.’
The Cambridges will stay in Jamaica until Thursday when they depart for the Bahamas. Opposition in Jamaica comes after the couple’s tour began in controversial circumstances in Belize.
Kate and William were forced to pull out of their first major engagement following protests from villagers who were angry at being told they had to tidy up their football field to allow the couple’s helicopter to land in it so they could visit a nearby cocoa farm. They accused the visit of perpetuating colonialism.
The engagement was replaced with a visit to a chocolate producer before the royals travelled to the cultural centre of the Garifuna community in Hopkins.
The demonstrators are involved in a long-running row with state officials over what they say was communal land taken from them during the British colonial era which has now been bought by a conservation charity that William is patron of.
It comes as William said yesterday that the ‘vigilance’ needed to safeguard democracy was being tested in Ukraine as he reiterated his pledge to ‘stand with them in solidarity’.
Kate yesterday in Hopkins, a village on the coast which is considered to be cultural centre of the Garifuna community in Belize
The Duke of Cambridge dances during a traditional Garifuna festival in Belize yesterday during the tour of the country
William quickly got his wife involved in the dancing in Belize as bystanders gathered to take pictures of the royal couple
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge showed off their incredible dance moves much to the delight of Belize crowds yesterday
Prince William was seen in hysterics as he tried to show off his moves whilst dancing during a Garifuna festival yesterday
‘It is always dangerous, however, to be complacent and to assume that democratic values will look after themselves. Vigilance in protecting them is needed’.’
In his speech delivered in the early hours, he added: ‘Her Majesty went on to say that ‘Most of all, democracy is safe-guarded by teamwork – the individual wills of all citizens, each pulling together towards the same objective’.
‘Sadly, elsewhere in the world, that vigilance is being tested today in Ukraine. Belize has joined many others in condemning the invasion and standing up for the principles of international law, peace and security.
‘Today we think of those struggling in Ukraine and we stand with them in solidarity.’
William, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall have all spoken out in support of Ukraine in recent weeks, as the country battles Russian forces after President Vladimir Putin’s troops invaded the country almost four weeks ago.
Villagers in Indian Creek staged a protest over the visit of Prince William and Kate to Belize last Friday
The charm offensive in Belize got off to a rocky start last Friday when villagers in Indian Creek (pictured) staged a protest
The duke’s words of support came as his tour of Belize with the duchess drew to a close, and he quoted from the Queen’s 1994 address to the country’s parliament which highlighted how individuals needed to work together to safeguard freedoms.
And in a lighter moment the duke revealed his son Prince George keeps up with his parents’ international trips by sticking pins in a map.
Speaking in the shadow of the Maya ruins at Cahal Pech, near San Ignacio, at a reception hosted by the Governor General Froya Tzalam, William quoted from the Queen’s 1994 speech.
He told the guests: ‘She said ‘I am proud to associate myself with your determination that social justice and personal freedom should flourish under the rule of law.
The duke also passed on the ‘very warmest wishes from my grandmother, the Queen of Belize’, on the occasion of her Platinum Jubilee’.
Speaking about his son George during the reception held to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, the duke said ‘We let them know where we are and he finds us on the map and puts a pin in it and shares with the others.’
The duchess wowed the guests wearing a stunning vibrant metallic pink dress designed by Vampire’s Wife with a Maya embroidered bag.
The couple met community leaders, well-known Belizeans, and members of Government, in the presence of the Prime Minister, Johnny Brienco.
In his speech William also highlighted Belize’s fight against Covid telling the guests: ‘The last two years of the Covid-19 pandemic have been hugely challenging but it is reassuring to have heard from so many people that things are on the up.’
