Pope Leo XIV Embarks on Historic Pastoral Visit to Africa
Vatican City – Pope Leo XIV is set to undertake his first pastoral visit to Africa from April 13–23, 2026, a journey encompassing Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea. The 11-day Apostolic Journey marks a significant moment for the pontiff, who has prior experience traveling throughout the African continent .
Itinerary Details
The Pope’s itinerary includes visits to key cities in each nation:
- Algeria (April 13–15): Algiers and Annaba
- Cameroon (April 15–18): Yaoundé, Bamenda, and Douala
- Angola (April 18–21): Luanda, Muxima, and Saurimo
- Equatorial Guinea (April 21–23): Malabo, Mongomo, and Bata
Responding to Invitations
The visit is being undertaken in response to invitations from the heads of state and ecclesiastical authorities in each country . While Angola and Equatorial Guinea had previously confirmed plans for the papal visit, Cameroon and Algeria had not issued formal confirmations as of February 25, 2026.
Significance of the Visit
Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Equatorial Guinea holds particular historical weight, as it will be the first papal visit to the nation in 44 years, since St. John Paul II’s visit on February 18, 1982 . In Angola, the visit is anticipated to be a moment of spiritual renewal and a rediscovery of the values that have shaped the Angolan people . Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has pledged full mobilization of the population to receive the Pope .
Additional Travels Planned
The Holy Witness Press Office also announced that Pope Leo XIV will visit the Principality of Monaco at the end of March and Spain in June, including Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands .