During a speech at a banquet in Jamaica, the Duke of Cambridge expressed his "deep grief" over slavery. Slavery was repugnant, "should never have happened," and "forever stains our past," according to Prince William.
Andrew Holness, the island's prime minister, had already assured the future monarch that his country intended to pursue its aims as an independent nation. The duke and duchess paid a visit to a hospital and a school on the fifth day of their Caribbean tour.
Prince William hailed the spirit of the island that "makes it so distinctive" while also acknowledging the UK's part in slavery during a dinner given by the Governor-General of Jamaica.
"Jamaica continues to forge its future with determination, courage, and fortitude, despite the deep pain," he said.
There have been calls in Jamaica to depose the Queen as head of state, and protests over the monarchy's failure to make reparations for the slave trade have taken place throughout the royal visit.
Mr Holness, who ran on a promise of making Jamaica a republic, informed the Duke of Edinburgh that there were "unresolved" issues, but that the royals' presence provided a chance to address them.
"We intend to achieve our development goals in short order and fulfill our true ambitions and destiny as an independent, developed, and prosperous country," he said.