Pope Leo XIV Addresses Cameroon’s Anglophone Crisis During African Visit

On Thursday, April 16, 2026, Pope Leo XIV visited Bamenda, Cameroon, as part of his 11-day apostolic journey across Africa. The visit focused on the ongoing Anglophone crisis in the country’s Northwest region, a conflict that has persisted since 2016 between government forces and separatist groups seeking independence for the English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions.

During a peace meeting at Saint Joseph’s Cathedral in Bamenda, the Pope addressed community leaders, religious representatives, and traditional rulers. He emphasized the urgency of peace efforts, stating that “the time for change is ‘today and not tomorrow, now and not in the future.'” The Pope condemned the devastation caused by the conflict, noting that “billions of dollars are spent on killing and devastation, yet the resources needed for healing, education and restoration are nowhere to be found.”

In remarks that garnered international attention, Pope Leo XIV warned that “the world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants.” He also criticized foreign exploitation of Africa’s resources, asserting that those who profit from the continent’s wealth often reinvest in weapons, perpetuating cycles of violence and instability.

The Pope’s visit coincided with reports of widespread suffering in the region, including at least 6,000 deaths and numerous displacements resulting from the decade-long conflict. His message called for immediate action toward peace and justice, urging Cameroon’s government to address internal challenges such as corruption while condemning external actors who exploit African resources for profit.

The apostolic journey continued across Africa, with the Pope engaging in further diplomatic and pastoral activities aimed at promoting peace and solidarity in conflict-affected regions.