Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Equatorial Guinea on the last stop of his multi-nation tour of Africa, marking the conclusion of a demanding diplomatic and pastoral journey across the continent.
The visit to the oil-rich Central African nation is the fourth and final leg of the Pope’s trip, which has taken him through Algeria, Cameroon and Angola since April 13.
He was received by government officials and enthusiastic crowds in the capital, Malabo, in what is being described as a significant moment for the predominantly Catholic country, where the Church plays a visible social role.
During his stay, the pontiff is expected to meet with President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, celebrate Mass, and visit key institutions, including a prison and a health facility, underscoring his focus on vulnerable populations and human dignity.
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The Equatorial Guinea leg is widely seen as the most diplomatically sensitive of the tour, given longstanding concerns by international observers over governance, human rights and the concentration of wealth in the country despite its oil resources.
Throughout his African tour, Pope Leo XIV has delivered strong messages against corruption, inequality and authoritarianism, calling on leaders to prioritise justice, peace and the welfare of citizens.
The 10-day trip, his first to Africa since becoming pope in 2025, is expected to end on April 23, after which he will return to Rome.
