Pope Leo XIV to begin major Africa tour

Pope Leo XIV is set to begin a ten-day visit to four African countries on Monday, in a trip aimed at highlighting the needs of a continent that is home to more than a fifth of the world’s Catholics.

It will be his first major foreign tour of 2026.

During the visit, the Pope will travel to 11 cities across Algeria, Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, taking 18 flights between 13 and 23 April. Cardinal Michael Czerny said the purpose of the trip is to draw global attention to Africa and underscore its importance.

Leo XIV, who took office last year, regards the visit as a personal priority. Africa is the fastest-growing region for the Catholic Church, with Catholics making up more than half the population in several of the countries on the itinerary.

The Pope is expected to deliver 25 speeches and meet political leaders as well as local communities. In Algeria, he plans to promote dialogue between Christians and Muslims, while in Cameroon he will take part in a peace gathering.

According to church officials, the visit is intended to present Africa as a place of hope, despite ongoing conflicts and humanitarian challenges.

(reuters, bak)