Pope Leo XIV leads a mass in Malabo as he concludes his 11-day tour of Africa.
Pope Leo XIV will conclude his 11-day tour of Africa with an open-air mass in Equatorial Guinea on Thursday, marking his first major international trip since assuming office.
The pontiff visited four countries, Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, covering about 18,000 kilometres and celebrating eight masses during the trip.
Throughout the tour, Leo delivered a mix of pastoral and political messages. He called for social justice, peace, and respect for human dignity, while condemning inequality, corruption, and the exploitation of Africa’s natural resources.
The visit also unfolded against a diplomatic row with Donald Trump, who criticised the pope’s positions on global issues. Leo, however, insisted his remarks were not directed at the US leader.
On Wednesday, the pope visited a prison in Bata, where he met inmates and criticised poor living conditions, highlighting concerns over human rights and prison welfare.
He will celebrate the final mass at a stadium in Malabo before departing for Rome, where he is expected to address journalists on the flight.
During the trip, Leo also addressed governance issues in several countries. Speaking in the presence of Equatorial Guinea’s long-serving leader, Teodoro Obiang Nguema, he called for greater political freedom and improved living conditions for citizens.
The 70-year-old pontiff maintained a strong pace throughout the journey, underscoring his active leadership style following the death of his predecessor, Pope Francis.
The Vatican has scheduled his next foreign visit to Spain from June 6 to 12.
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