Prince William learning Swahili

Prince William is so passionate about Africa he is learning to speak Swahili.

The student prince - who has decided on an "Out Of Africa" fancy dress theme for his 21st birthday party at Windsor next month - says he wants to be able to speak to people in their own language on future visits. Insiders say his first official solo foreign trip is likely to be to Africa.

In his most candid interview so far - to thank the media for affording him privacy during his time at university - William said: "I'm trying to teach myself Swahili, which is something that has proved a little harder than I thought. It's an odd language to learn but I wanted to do something very specialised. I love the people of Africa and I'd like to know more about them - and to speak to them.

"I've got a book and a book-tape ... and they're collecting dust quite rapidly but I am trying to make progress."

The prince, who revealed he considered quitting St Andrew's University in the first term because he felt "uneasy", admits he is still uncertain about his future. "I'm really just concentrating on getting through the next two years. I honestly haven't thought about what I'm going to do next," he said.

He has not decided what degree he will finally take, he said: "It slightly depends on my exam results. History of art and geography are my two choices."

William talked about student life, and how he gets carried away shopping for food in the supermarket, but said he was a country boy, preferring cider to beer.