The Countess of Wessex

The Countess of Wessex

Britain's Countess of Wessex is proving a hit in South Africa.

Sophie and her husband Prince Edward embarked on a week-long visit to the country on October 4, with the mother-of-two most recently taking a trip to Jabulile School in Orange Farm where she was given a warm welcome by students and teachers alike.

The 48-year-old royal gave an introductory speech to the teenagers before being treated to a special performance of traditional dances and songs by the students, some of whom were visibly overcome with emotion upon meeting her.

Sophie also took a tour of the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls on the same day to talk to the pupils about their work.

The Earl and Countess are visiting South Africa in support of Edward's involvement with The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation as well as the South African President's Award for Youth Empowerment Trust.

During their stay, they will meet President Jacob Zuma in Cape Town and be given a tour of the Constitutional Court by Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng.

Edward is also due to award South African swimmer Natalie du Toit with an honorary MBE for her contribution to Paralympic sport.