Royal Proposal: Prince William's romantic reflection with Duchess Kate
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge hosted a special reception on behalf of the Queen at Buckingham Palace on Monday evening to mark the UK-Africa summit.
The couple were joined by Prince Edward and his wife, the Countess of Wessex along with Princess Anne.
During the event, Prince William spoke candidly about his own love for the African continent, and included a sweet anecdote about his proposal to Duchess Catherine that took place almost a decade ago.
"The African continent holds a very special place in my heart,” the Duke began.
"It was the place my father took my brother and me shortly after my mother died.
"And when deciding where best to propose to Catherine, I could think of no more fitting place than Kenya to get down on one knee," he said with a smile.
At the time he proposed to his then-girlfriend with his late mother’s famous blue Ceylon sapphire and diamond ring.
He continued, "Throughout my life, I have been lucky enough to spend time in many other parts of Africa.
"I'm also honoured to be the Patron of the Royal African Society and as Catherine and I have said to several of you here tonight we hope to have a chance to visit man more countries in the future and share our mutual love of your continent with our children."
Duchess Catherine was a picture of ruby red perfection in a sheer and sequinned gown by Needle & Thread, which she paired with matching suede pumps and elegant waves.
Countess Sophie, who was also in the midst of celebrating her 55th birthday, also opted for stunning red Alaia dress with capped sleeves.
Just like his younger brother Prince Harry, the Duke of Cambridge holds Africa incredibly close to his heart.
The Duke of Sussex said visiting Africa allowed him to heal after the tragic loss of his mother, calling the place his “second home”.
It has also been recently revealed, that years before meeting Duchess Meghan, he reportedly confessed to royal reporter Rebecca English about wishing he could walk away from royal life, move to Africa and become a tour guide.
Scroll through the gallery to see the Duchess of Cambridge in her stunning red ball gown.