Africa World Politics

Pope Leo XIV Visits Angola

Pope Leo XIV Visits Angola

Pope Leo XIV has brought his message of social justice to Angola, a nation marked by vast natural resource wealth alongside deep poverty.

During his first day in Luanda, the pontiff condemned the exploitation of rare-earth minerals and oil, which he linked to 'social and environmental disasters.' He also addressed his ongoing public feud with President Trump, stating that a debate with the U.S. leader is 'not in my interest' as he focuses on his peace mission.

The visit is seen as a critical moment for Angola's large Catholic population, who hope the Pope will tackle issues of corruption and economic inequality.

Leo XIV
267th Pope of the Catholic Church (2025–)
Angola
Country on the west coast of Southern Africa
Luanda
Capital of Angola
Cameroon
Sovereign state in West-Central Africa
Donald Trump
President of the United States (2017–2021; since 2025)