Pope Leo begins first trip to Africa

Pope Leo XIV will begin an 18,000-kilometre tour across four African countries on Monday, marking one of the most extensive trips of his papacy.

The 11-day visit to Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea is expected to focus on global concerns, including conflict, migration, corruption and human rights, as the Vatican deepens engagement in a region where the Catholic Church is growing.

His first stop will be Algeria, where he will become the first pope to visit. He is scheduled to meet President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, visit the Great Mosque of Algiers and travel to Annaba, historically linked to Saint Augustine.

The visit also includes a tribute to migrants who died attempting to cross the Mediterranean, reflecting the Vatican’s continued focus on migration issues.

In Cameroon, the pope is expected to address peace and reconciliation efforts, particularly in conflict-affected English-speaking regions.

The Angola leg will centre on poverty and corruption, despite the country’s significant oil wealth and post-war recovery.

The tour will conclude in Equatorial Guinea, where Pope Leo is expected to meet President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.

The trip is the pope’s third international visit since his election and underscores the Vatican’s increasing focus on Africa’s role in global religious and geopolitical affairs.

SOURCE: AP