As Africa and the world reflect on the life and papacy of Pope Francis, Africa mourns not only the passing of a spiritual leader but also a rare global figure who gave sustained attention to the continent’s struggles and aspirations. His legacy is marked by a consistent and vocal commitment to peace, justice, and the dignity of all people, especially the vulnerable and marginalised.
Commitment to Peace in Conflict Zones
Throughout his 12-year pontificate, Pope Francis maintained a clear and unwavering concern for Africa’s conflict-affected regions. His advocacy was more than rhetorical. In a widely publicised moment in 2019, the Pope knelt and kissed the feet of South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir and opposition leader Riek Machar during a Vatican retreat.
This act, viewed as extraordinary by many observers, was intended as a personal appeal for reconciliation and peace. “It was a plea from the heart, not just a diplomatic gesture,” Vatican sources said at the time.
In his final Easter message on April 20th, 2025, Pope Francis once again drew attention to African conflicts. His message, read by Mgr. Diego Ravelli, included a pointed call for disarmament:
“Que le Christ ressuscité, notre espérance, accorde la paix et le réconfort aux populations africaines, victimes des violences et des conflits en particulier en RDC, au Soudans et au Sud Sudan. Aucune paix n’est possible sans véritable désarmement.”
Translated: “May the risen Christ, our hope, grant peace and comfort to the African populations, victims of violence and conflict, particularly in the DRC, Sudan and South Sudan. No peace is possible without true disarmament.”
Addressing the Anglophone Crisis in Cameroon
Pope Francis has also shown significant concern regarding the ongoing conflict in Cameroon, particularly the Anglophone Crisis in the Northwest and Southwest regions.
He has repeatedly called for dialogue and reconciliation. Speaking on multiple occasions, the Pope urged all parties to seek “peaceful, just, and lasting solutions” to the crisis. His messages consistently emphasised an end to violence and the urgent need for protection of civilians, especially children.
Following the tragic school shooting in Kumba in October 2020, where several students lost their lives, Pope Francis publicly condemned what he described as a “cruel and senseless act.” He called for the silencing of weapons and the protection of children’s right to education.
In January 2021, the Vatican took additional diplomatic steps. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State, visited Cameroon to convey the Pope’s solidarity and support for peace. The visit underscored the Holy See’s continued concern over the socio-political unrest in the Anglophone regions.
Moreover, the Pope has supported the efforts of the local Catholic Church in Cameroon, which has played a mediating role between government forces and separatist groups. The Church has also been active in delivering humanitarian aid to internally displaced persons and fostering community dialogue.
In all these efforts, Pope Francis consistently demonstrated his commitment to resolving the Anglophone Crisis through nonviolent means and inclusive dialogue.
Advocacy for Refugees and Migrants
Pope Francis’ first papal journey in 2013 set the tone for his focus on the plight of migrants—many of whom are African. On the Italian island of Lampedusa, the Pope commemorated the lives of migrants who perished at sea. His words that day challenged prevailing attitudes:
“In this globalised world, we have fallen into globalised indifference… it doesn’t affect me; it doesn’t concern me; it’s none of my business!”
He later articulated a consistent message: “Migrants are to be welcomed, accompanied, supported, and integrated.” This position, while often unpopular in political circles, remained central to his pastoral teaching.
A Lifelong Bond with Mozambique
Before becoming Pope, Archbishop Jorge Mario Bergoglio—then Metropolitan of Buenos Aires—supported missionary efforts in Mozambique. In response to Bishop Julio Duarte Langa’s appeal, Bergoglio ensured that Argentine priests were sent to serve in the Diocese of Xai-Xai. This lesser-known aspect of his ministry reveals a long-standing connection with Africa that predated his papacy.
Apostolic Journeys to the Continent
Pope Francis visited several African nations during his pontificate: Kenya, Uganda, the Central African Republic (CAR), Egypt, Morocco, Mozambique, Madagascar, the Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Mauritius.
One of the most notable visits occurred in November 2015, when he travelled to the CAR amid security concerns. Rejecting the use of a bulletproof vest or shielded Popemobile, the Pope entered Bangui’s PK5 district—then considered a “no-go area”—to meet with the local Muslim community.
The Chief Imam, Tidiani Moussa Naibi, welcomed him with gratitude. Journalists present noted the peaceful atmosphere and the symbolic significance of the Pope’s outreach.
Championing Africa’s Concerns on the Global Stage
In a speech during a visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Pope Francis called for an end to exploitation:
“Hands off the Democratic Republic of the Congo! Hands off Africa! Stop choking Africa; Africa is not a mine to be stripped or a terrain to be plundered.”
He often spotlighted global inequalities that affect Africa, including the disproportionate impact of climate change and vaccine distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Embracing Africa’s Spiritual and Cultural Diversity
Pope Francis’ appreciation for African liturgy was also evident. He celebrated Mass with Rome’s Congolese community and praised the Zairean Rite as a “promising model” for other cultures.
During his 2023 visit to the DRC, he encouraged Africans to hold fast to their values, including respect for elders and ethnic diversity.
“Ethnic diversity is a joy to be embraced,” he said. “Never a menace.”
A Lasting Impact
Pope Francis’s legacy in Africa is profound. He was often a singular voice in championing the continent’s issues on the global stage. Through visits, policy advocacy, and symbolic gestures, he left behind not just memories but a framework for continued engagement rooted in dignity and peace.
As many African Catholics reflect on his passing, the sentiment is that he was not only a pope for the world but a steadfast friend to Africa.
Joseph Essama contributed to this report
