Pope Leo XIV Begins Four-Nation Tour of Africa

Pope Leo XIV started his trip across Africa on Monday, marking his fourth international visit since taking office in 2025. This journey focuses on a continent where the Catholic Church is experiencing significant growth.

Interestingly, Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation and a place where many have faced violence for their faith, is not included in this itinerary. Instead, the pope kicks off his tour in Algeria, a country with a predominantly Muslim population.

The Vatican has labeled this journey an “African pilgrimage.” The main discussions revolve around themes like peace, immigration, environmental issues, youth, and families. Throughout the tour, Pope Leo plans to deliver 25 speeches in four different languages: French, English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Some analysts and clerics are eager to highlight the significance of this visit. Rev. Daniel Marais, secretary of the Augustinian Friars of Africa, mentioned, “I think the Pope is really connecting with the African church within the broader context of the global church.” He emphasized the church’s commitment to the poor and marginalized communities. Catholic OSV News also noted that the visit underscores efforts for peace and the active presence of the Catholic Church in Africa.

By 1910, the Catholic population in Africa was fewer than 1 million. Fast forward to 2024, and it’s estimated that the number has surged to 288 million.

On the topic of Nigeria’s omission, analyst Frans Cronje commented that it might disappoint many given the country’s challenging situation regarding terrorism, especially affecting Christians.

The Nigerian government tends to require an invitation for such visits, and analysts suggest they may view a papal visit as somewhat precarious at this time. However, there’s been no official response from the government regarding the Pope’s absence from their agenda.

Details of the Trip:

Algeria: April 13th to April 15th

With a population ranging around 46 to 48 million, only about 8,740 people identify as Catholic in Algeria. The Pope is slated to visit the historic city of Hippo, known today as Annaba, which is tied to St. Augustine, a foundational figure in the church. Additionally, during his time at the Great Mosque in Algiers—one of the largest in the world—the Pope is expected to foster interfaith dialogue.

Authorities in Algeria have been tightening restrictions on religious activities; recently, 47 churches belonging to the Algerian Protestant Church have been shut down. There was also a Vatican request for Leo to visit the Tibirine Monastery, the site where seven French monks were captured and killed in the 1990s during the civil war, but this was not approved.

Cameroon: April 15th to April 18th

In Cameroon, where Catholics make up roughly 30% to 35% of the population, the Pope is expected to hold five public masses and speaks across three cities. He plans to meet with vulnerable children at the Ngulu Zamba orphanage in Yaoundé.

Angola: April 18th to April 21st

Angola boasts a Catholic population of about 56%. A highlight of the Pope’s visit is anticipated to be a prayer session at the shrine of the Virgin Mary in the town of Mxima. This site draws more than 2 million pilgrims annually, reflecting its significance in the community.

Equatorial Guinea: April 21st to April 23rd

Finally, in Equatorial Guinea, where around 80% of the population identifies as Catholic, Pope Leo will celebrate several masses and speeches. He’s set to visit a newly opened psychiatric hospital and a notorious prison known for reports of torture and mistreatment of inmates.

This journey encapsulates a broader narrative of faith in Africa, characterized by both growth and challenges.