Pope Leo XIV African tour

The tour is intended to focus on the growing influence of the Catholic Church in Africa, which the Vatican sees as its future center of gravity.

During his visit, the Pope is expected to address complex issues such as polygamy and the moral obligation to protect civilians in conflict zones.

He has also called for an immediate ceasefire in Lebanon as fighting between Israel and Hezbollah continues to rage.

The trip is being closely watched as a strategic move to strengthen ties with the Global South amid shifting geopolitical alliances.