The Holy See has announced that Pope Leo XIV will undertake a major 11-day pastoral visit to Africa—the first of his pontificate to the continent—from 13 to 23 April 2026. According to the Vatican announcement, the pope’s Apostolic Journey will take him to four African nations in succession: Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.
The itinerary begins in Algeria. The pope is to visit Algiers and Annaba April 13–15; Yaoundé, Bamenda, and Douala in Cameroon April 15–18; Luanda, Muxima, and Saurimo in Angola April 18–21; and Malabo, Mongomo, and Bata in Equatorial Guinea April 21–23.
Vatican officials say the journey responds to invitations from the heads of state and local church authorities in each country, underscoring the importance of strengthening bonds between the Holy See and Catholic communities across Africa. Observers note that the visit will embrace a missionary and pastoral spirit, with a particular emphasis on peace, unity, and solidarity, especially in regions that have faced conflict and social challenges.
The length and breadth of the trip—nearly equal to some of the longest papal journeys in recent history—reflect Pope Leo’s commitment to global outreach and his desire to stand with both Christian minorities and the broader faithful in Africa. Analysts also note that this African pilgrimage will be followed by a one-day visit to Monaco on March 28 and a six-day visit to Spain from June 6–12, marking the Pope’s first engagements in Europe for 2026.
While details of the full program are still being finalized, the visit signals a deepening of ties between the Vatican and African churches, and sets the tone for a year of active international engagement by the Holy Father.