Royal Watch News

Princess Charlene hosts South Africa gala

Oct 1, 2012, 11:01 GMT

Princess Charlene and Prince Albert

Princess Charlene of Monaco has paid tribute to her home country by hosting a South Africa gala in Monte Carlo.

The former Olympic swimmer - who married Prince Albert of Monaco last year - honoured her native country with a glamorous gala held at the Monte Carlo Opera House on Saturday (29.09.12).

Charlene was joined by Albert and members of her family at the gala, which began a week long celebration of the country, known as Touch of Africa, which ends on October 6.

Starting the proceedings was South African musician Johnny Clegg, who took to the stage performing his best loved tracks such as Asimbonanga which roused the crowd to their feet as they danced the night away.

Several other famous faces are reportedly in Monaco to attend the forthcoming festivities, including Charlene's brother Gareth, Swedish model Victoria Silvstedt and Sir Roger Moore.

Charlene is very proud of roots and ahead of the recent London Olympics, she invited the South African swimming team to train in Monaco.

A statement at the time announced: 'HSH Princess Charlene invited the South African swimmers selected for the London Olympics to train in the Principality. The princess would like these very promising young athletes to benefit from the best possible conditions before the Games.

'With the support of Her Foundation, the princess made certain the swimmers would follow a rigorous physical preparation programme perfectly adapted to the Olympic Games. The princess said she would be extremely attentive to the proper organisation of their stay, which should last from 8 to 22 July in Monaco.'