Pope Leo XIV gave a strong message against corruption while speaking to Cameroon’s leaders at the Presidential Palace in Yaoundé. He warned that corruption damages trust, weakens the country, and harms ordinary people. The Pope urged leaders to be honest, transparent, and to remember that their role is to serve the people, not themselves. He stressed that true peace cannot exist where there is injustice, greed, and misuse of power.
He then spoke about the country’s ongoing internal conflict, especially in the English-speaking Northwest and Southwest regions. Tensions between English-speaking and French-speaking communities have led to years of violence. Separatist groups fighting for a new country called Ambazonia have clashed with government forces, causing suffering, fear, and the displacement of many families.
Pope Leo expressed deep sadness over the pain faced by civilians, especially children and the poor. He urged all sides to stop the violence and reject what he called the “logic of war.” Instead, he called for dialogue, understanding, and peaceful solutions based on justice and respect.
The Pope also reminded the nation that Cameroon’s diversity should be seen as a strength, not a division. He encouraged leaders and citizens to work together for unity and peace. Presenting himself as a “servant of dialogue,” he said his visit is meant to bring hope, especially to young people who dream of a better and more peaceful future.