Pope Leo XIV has condemned the exploitation of Africa's wealth by foreign interests during his visit to the conflict-affected Bamenda region of Cameroon. Speaking to an estimated 20,000 worshippers at a Mass held at Bamenda Airport, he expressed that outsiders continue to plunder the continent's resources in the name of profit, exacerbating internal problems.
The Pope's visit comes at a time when Cameroon is grappling with a brutal separatist conflict that has led to over 6,000 deaths in nearly a decade. He highlighted the plight of the Anglophone regions, where citizens feel marginalized by a Francophone-dominated government.
Throughout his visit, the Pope addressed various issues including corruption, urging Cameroonian authorities to safeguard peace by eliminating corrupt practices plaguing governance. He emphasized that tyrants are ravaging the world, profiting from the suffering and instability of people through the perpetuation of war.
In a day filled with poignant reflections, the Pope responded to the warm welcome he received from the local population, who sang and danced despite the ongoing violence. His remarks resonated strongly, appealing for unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
The pontiff continues his journey through Africa, with a message focused on peace and reconciliation, following a historical visit to Algeria that marked the first time any pope has visited the predominantly Muslim nation.
