NAIROBI, Kenya— Pope Leo XIV is set to hold a massive open-air mass in Angola before visiting one of southern Africa’s most revered Christian pilgrimage sites, as his African tour increasingly focuses on inequality and the exploitation of natural resources.
The pontiff arrived in Angola on Saturday, marking the third leg of his four-nation visit across the continent.
Pope Warns Against Resource Exploitation and Inequality
During a meeting with officials, including President Joao Lourenco, Pope Leo delivered a pointed message on the human cost of unchecked resource extraction.
He condemned the “suffering” and environmental “disasters” caused by the exploitation of Africa’s natural wealth—echoing themes he has consistently raised throughout his 11-day tour.
Angola, rich in oil and diamonds yet grappling with widespread poverty, has become a focal point for the pope’s call for more equitable distribution of resources and stronger governance.
Historic Visit to Muxima Shrine Draws Global Attention
On Sunday, tens of thousands of faithful are expected to attend a major mass at Kilamba, near the capital Luanda.
The pope will then travel to Muxima Church, a 300-year-old religious site that stands along a historic slave route on the Kwanza River.
The shrine, home to the revered statue of “Mama Muxima,” attracts nearly two million pilgrims annually and remains one of the most significant spiritual landmarks in southern Africa.
However, the site’s history is deeply tied to Angola’s colonial past, where enslaved people were baptised before being shipped across the Atlantic—adding a layer of historical reflection to the pope’s visit.
Tour Unfolds Amid Political and Global Tensions
Pope Leo’s Africa tour began in Algeria and has included stops in Cameroon, with Equatorial Guinea next on the itinerary.
The trip has unfolded against a backdrop of global tensions, including a public spat with Donald Trump, who criticised the pope’s stance on global conflicts.
Leo, however, has downplayed the exchange, stating he has no interest in engaging in political debates and remains focused on promoting peace and justice.
What This Means for Africa and the Church
The Angola visit underscores a broader message emerging from the pope’s tour: Africa’s vast natural wealth must translate into tangible benefits for its people.
With inequality, governance, and historical injustices taking centre stage, the visit is likely to resonate far beyond religious circles—touching on economic and political realities facing the continent.
As Pope Leo prepares for the final leg of his journey, his message remains clear: social justice, accountability, and dignity must guide both governments and institutions.
