Pope Leo's Africa tour

History's first U.S.-born pope has launched an ambitious mission to Africa, traversing nearly 18,000 kilometers across Algeria, Benin, and other nations.

In Algeria, the pontiff will honor St. Augustine and meet with religious leaders to foster dialogue amidst a period of global geopolitical tension.

The tour is viewed as a strategic focus on the global south, where the Church is experiencing its most significant growth.

Despite the celebratory nature of the visit, the Pope's outspoken criticisms of U.S. foreign policy continue to shadow his international engagements.