Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Cameroon for the second leg of his 10-day African tour, carrying a message centered on peace, dialogue, and ethical governance.
The pontiff touched down in the capital, Yaounde, after departing Algeria, where he began his four-nation visit. His trip comes at a time of heightened tensions both in Africa and internationally, including ongoing criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.
In Cameroon’s conflict-affected separatist regions, fighters have reportedly declared a temporary three-day ceasefire, coinciding with the pope’s visit. Vatican officials say the visit will emphasize anti-corruption efforts in the mineral-rich nation and promote responsible use of political authority.
During his stay, Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to meet with Cameroon’s longtime leader, Paul Biya, who has been in power since 1982 and is currently the world’s oldest sitting head of state. The meeting will take place at the presidential palace, where Biya is also expected to deliver remarks before the pope addresses government officials, diplomats, and civil servants.
In a last-minute adjustment to the official program, Cameroonian authorities shifted the venue for the address from a conference center to the presidential palace, according to the Vatican.
Beyond political engagements, the pope will also visit a Catholic-run orphanage operated by a religious order of nuns, underscoring the Church’s humanitarian mission.
Speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane en route to Cameroon, Pope Leo XIV reflected on his time in Algeria, describing it as a deeply personal experience.
He highlighted his visit to Annaba, associated with St. Augustine, noting the saint’s enduring message of unity and spiritual search.
The pope reiterated his call for global peace and dialogue but did not directly address criticism from President Trump, maintaining focus on his broader diplomatic and pastoral mission across the continent.
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