DW Africa reports that the schedule begins in Algeria, where Leo will visit Algiers and Annaba from April 13 to 15.
He will then travel to Cameroon including Yaoundé, Bamenda, and Douala, from April 15 to 18, followed by Luanda, Muxima, and Saurimo in Angola from April 18 to 21, and Malabo, Mongomo, and Bata in Equatorial Guinea from April 21 to 23.
Africa at the heart of the Catholic Church’s global mission
The visit will mark several milestones: Pope Leo will be the first pontiff to visit Algeria, a predominantly Muslim nation with a small Catholic population, promoting Catholic-Muslim dialogue and interfaith cooperation.
Equatorial Guinea’s bishops called it “a kairos,” or decisive moment of spiritual renewal for the faithful.
Analysts note the Vatican’s focus on Africa extends beyond religion, reflecting engagement with countries experiencing political, economic, and social transformation. Pope Leo’s itinerary, following earlier visits to Turkey and Lebanon, signals that Africa is a central component of the church’s global mission, both spiritually and diplomatically.
The tour is expected to deepen ties between the Vatican and African nations, highlight the church’s role in development, and showcase its commitment to interfaith dialogue across a rapidly changing continent.
