Pope Leo XIV continued his historic 11-day Apostolic Journey across Africa on Wednesday, marking the third day of his itinerary with travel from Algeria to Cameroon. The day highlighted the Pope’s central message of peace, dialogue, and human dignity as he transitions between two nations deeply rooted in the Church’s growing presence on the continent.
The Holy Father departed from Algiers after concluding his visit to the homeland of St. Augustine, describing his time there as a “special blessing” and expressing gratitude for the opportunity to “build bridges and promote dialogue.” His departure ceremony reflected the tone of the visit, which emphasized interreligious understanding and reconciliation in a region marked by shared history and cultural diversity.
Upon arrival in Yaoundé, Cameroon, Pope Leo was welcomed by large, jubilant crowds, with Vatican and Cameroonian flags waving along the roads leading to the presidential palace. The Pope met privately with President Paul Biya before addressing authorities, members of civil society, and the diplomatic corps, urging a commitment to justice and an “unarmed peace” rooted in truth and service.
In a particularly moving part of the day, Pope Leo visited the Ngal Zamba Orphanage, where he was greeted by children and religious sisters with songs and celebration. The encounter underscored his pastoral focus on the most vulnerable, especially children affected by poverty and conflict.
The day concluded with a private meeting with Cameroon’s bishops at the headquarters of the National Episcopal Conference, reinforcing the Pope’s call for unity within the Church and renewed commitment to pastoral care.
As his African journey continues, Pope Leo XIV’s message remains consistent: a call for reconciliation, protection of human dignity, and a renewed commitment to peace across nations facing both political and social challenges.