Pope Leo denounces mineral 'colonization'

In a speech to university students, the Pope urged African youth to stay and improve their own countries rather than migrating due to displacement.

He also paid tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis, on the first anniversary of his death while traveling to the authoritarian nation.

Some Catholics have expressed concern that the visit could lend legitimacy to repressive leaders who have been in office for decades.

The Pope's message focused on the need for ethical resource management and the protection of human dignity in the face of exploitation.