Pope prioritises world’s fastest-growing Catholic region in major Africa tour

Pope Focuses on Africa’s Rapidly Expanding Catholic Population During Major Tour

Africa is set to take center stage in Pope Leo XIV’s itinerary as he undertakes an 11-day journey across the continent to address pressing global issues such as peacebuilding, migration, and interfaith collaboration. This visit, beginning on Monday, marks his second significant international trip since assuming the papacy in May of last year. The decision underscores the region’s rising prominence within the Catholic Church, which now boasts over 288 million adherents—more than a fifth of the world’s total—as of 2024.

Algeria: A Spiritual and Political First Stop

The Pope’s tour includes stops in 11 cities across four nations: Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea. While most of these countries have substantial Catholic populations, Algeria stands out as a non-Catholic destination, chosen for its symbolic importance. It is the birthplace of St Augustine, and Pope Leo XIV is the first pontiff from the Augustinean order, which traces its roots to the theologian’s teachings. The visit will begin with a Mass in Annaba, the site of St Augustine’s former bishopric, where he will address the faithful.

“I believe the Pope will inspire us to deepen our faith and strive for a new world—one rooted in peace and unity,” said Father Peter Claver Kogh, the Basilica of our Lady of Africa’s Rector, referring to the Pope’s expected message at the site.

Notably, the Basilica in Algiers features a statue of the black Virgin Mary, revered by both Christians and Muslims. Inscribed beneath it are the words “pray for us and pray for the Muslims,” highlighting the interfaith dialogue central to the trip. However, the journey coincides with growing concerns from rights organizations about Algeria’s treatment of religious minorities, including Christians and Ahmadi Muslims, who have faced imprisonment for unauthorized worship or perceived Islamic slights.

Cameroon: A Nation in the Grip of Conflict

Following Algeria, the Pope will visit Cameroon, where a decade-long conflict in the English-speaking regions has displaced over half a million people and claimed at least 6,000 lives. The tension stems from disputes between separatist groups and the francophone-led government. In Bamenda, the capital of Cameroon’s North-West region, the Pope will hold a Mass for peace and justice at the airport, offering hope to locals affected by the violence.

“With God coming, I know everything will be resolved,” said Ernestine Afanwi, a 45-year-old woman who fled her home in Bamenda after it was destroyed. She now resides in Yaoundé with other displaced individuals and expressed a desire to meet the Pope to seek his blessing for the land.

Angola and Equatorial Guinea: Historical and Contemporary Significance

In Angola, the Pope’s visit will emphasize peace and reconstruction, given the country’s 27-year civil war that ended in 2002. The Catholic Church has been present since the late 15th century, with Portuguese missionaries establishing a foothold along the coast. The Pope is expected to meet with bishops and celebrate Mass with an estimated 200,000 followers, a third of whom identify as Catholic.

Equatorial Guinea, the final destination, has more than 70% of its population identifying as Catholic. The Pope’s address will likely touch on social justice, aligning with the nation’s current challenges. The visit aims to strengthen the Church’s role in addressing regional issues, reflecting its enduring influence in the region.