Pope Leo, a newly assertive global figure, embarks on a tour of Africa, starting with Angola
Pope Leo departs on Saturday for Angola, where he is anticipated to speak on the exploitation of natural resources in the oil-rich nation during the third leg of his four-nation Africa tour, showcasing a newly assertive speaking style.
Leo, who has faced multiple attacks from President Donald Trump this week following the pope’s criticism of the Iran war, is set to arrive from Cameroon, where on Thursday he remarked that the world is “being ravaged by a handful of tyrants.”
The first U.S. pope was expected to arrive in Luanda, the capital of Angola, at approximately 3 p.m. (1400 GMT).
Before departing Cameroon, Leo held a farewell Mass in the capital, Yaoundé, encouraging attendees to maintain hope despite the difficulties confronting the Central African nation, including an ongoing conflict in its two anglophone regions that has resulted in thousands of deaths. “In times when we feel as though we are sinking, overwhelmed by opposing forces, when everything seems dark … Jesus is with us always, more powerful than any force of evil,” the pontiff conveyed to a gathering that the Vatican estimated at 200,000, marking it as the largest event of his tour to date.” In every storm, he comes to us and repeats, “I am here with you; do not be afraid,” Leo stated.
Angola confronts poverty even in the midst of its oil wealth.
Later on Saturday in Angola, the pope was scheduled to meet with President João Lourenço prior to addressing the nation’s political leaders.
Following decades of violent conflict in the 20th century, Angola emerged as a prominent oil-producing nation in sub-Saharan Africa, with the sector representing approximately 95% of its exports.
The population of 36.6 million individuals continues to face severe poverty, with over 30% subsisting on less than $2.15 daily, as reported by the World Bank.
A majority of the population identifies as Catholic.
Leo, hailing from Chicago, maintained a relatively understated presence as pope during his initial 10 months but has recently become more vocal on various topics. He has delivered pointed criticisms of war and inequality during his ambitious 10-day tour of Africa.
Crowds welcoming the pope during his visit to Cameroon were vibrant, with around 120,000 attendees at a Mass on Friday in Douala. They lined the streets along his routes, adorned in colorful fabrics displaying his image.
