Pope Leo XIV's First Major African Tour Begins April 11

Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to begin his first major international tour to Africa on April 11, covering a journey of 18,000 kilometers across Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, concluding on April 23. The tour will emphasize key issues such as interfaith dialogue, conflict resolution, and human rights.

During the trip, the Pope is expected to deliver 11 speeches and celebrate seven masses while visiting several religious community centers. In Algeria, he will meet President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and visit the Great Mosque in Algiers, marking the first papal visit to North Africa.

He will also engage with members of the Augustinian Order in Annaba, a city historically linked to Saint Augustine. In Cameroon, the Pope plans to address peace and reconciliation, particularly in the English-speaking regions affected by conflict, and will hold talks with President Paul Biya.

In Angola, he will highlight economic inequity and call for fair distribution of wealth. His visit to Equatorial Guinea will require diplomatic care due to human rights concerns under President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.