World Africa

Pope Leo Greets Crowds in Africa

Pope Leo Greets Crowds in Africa

The Pope's visit to Malabo was marked by large crowds and a high-stakes meeting with President Teodoro Obiang, the world's longest-serving leader.

Leo XIV paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, on the first anniversary of his death, emphasizing a message of mercy and solidarity with the poor.

He warned that humanity's destiny could be 'tragically compromised' by a breakdown in international law and political responsibility.

The tour has been defined by the Pope's increasingly forceful speaking style regarding social justice and economic inequality.

Leo XIV
267th Pope of the Catholic Church (2025–)
Equatorial Guinea
Sovereign state in Africa
Teodoro Obiang
Equatoguinean politician, President of Equatorial Guinea since 1979
Pope Francis
266th pope of the Catholic Church (2013–2025)