Pope Leo's first day in Cameroon

Pope Leo addresses authorities, civil society and diplomatic corps in the Presidential Palace

Source: Vatican Media

Pope Leo XIV's landed at Yaoundé-Nsimalen International Airport near Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, at 2.57pm local time today, Wednesday, 15 April, marking the beginning of the second leg of his Apostolic Journey.

His first stop was at the Presidential Palace, where he met privately with the President of the Republic, Paul Barthélemy Biya, before addressing the authorities, civil society and diplomatic corps of the country.

Expressed gratitude for the warm welcome he received, Pope Leo XIV describing Cameroon as "Africa in miniature" for its cultural and natural richness. "This variety is not weakness but a treasure," he said, noting that it represents "a promise of fraternity and a solid foundation for building lasting peace."

Presenting himself as "a shepherd and a servant of dialogue, fraternity and peace," Pope Leo said his visit was intended as a sign of closeness to all Cameroonians and an encouragement to persevere in building the common good.

He acknowledged the global climate of discouragement, observing that "hopelessness is rampant" and that many feel powerless in the face of urgent challenges. Yet, he insisted, there remains "a hunger and thirst for justice… for courageous choices and for peace," particularly among young people, whom he called to take an active role in shaping a more just society.

The Pope also reaffirmed the Holy See's commitment to strengthening its collaboration with Cameroon, grounded in respect for human dignity and religious freedom.

Recalling the legacy of his predecessors, he pointed to the enduring relevance of their calls for hope, reconciliation and responsible governance.

Drawing on the words of Saint Augustine, he reminded leaders that authority is fundamentally a form of service: those who govern, he said, must do so "not from a love of power, but from a sense of the duty they owe to others."

Such service, he explained, requires dedication to the good of all, including minorities, and the promotion of harmony within society.

Turning to the challenges facing Cameroon, Pope Leo spoke candidly about the violence affecting regions such as the Northwest, Southwest and Far North, noting the "profound suffering" caused by conflict: lives lost, families displaced, and young people deprived of hope.

"Behind the numbers are the faces, stories and shattered hopes of real people," he said.

Renewing an appeal he made earlier this year, the Pope urged the rejection of "the logic of violence and war" in favour of a peace "founded on love and justice." He described true peace as "unarmed" and "disarming," capable of opening hearts and fostering trust.

"The world is thirsting for peace… Enough of war," he said, stressing that peace must never be reduced to empty rhetoric but embodied in daily life and institutional practice.

The Pope affirmed that peace is a shared responsibility, beginning with those in positions of authority. To govern, he said, means "truly listening to citizens" and valuing their contributions in shaping lasting solutions.

He also called for a renewed approach to social policies, echoing the need to move beyond initiatives carried out "for the poor" without their participation.

Highlighting the vital role of civil society, Pope Leo XIV praised associations, youth and women's groups, trade unions, NGOs, and religious leaders for their efforts in mediation, care for the displaced, and the promotion of dialogue. Their grassroots presence, he said, allows them to address the root causes of conflict and foster a culture of peace.

He offered particular gratitude for the contribution of women, describing them as "tireless peacemakers" whose work in education and social rebuilding is indispensable. "Their voice must be fully recognised in decision-making processes," he said.

The Pope underscored the importance of transparency, the rule of law, and credible institutions in restoring public trust. He called on authorities to act as "bridges, never as sources of division," and to ensure that security measures always respect human rights.

"Authentic peace arises when everyone feels protected, heard and respected," he noted.

He further warned against corruption, describing it as a force that "disfigures authority and strips it of its credibility," and urged leaders to free themselves from an "idolatrous thirst for profit," pointing instead to integral human development as the true measure of progress.

Turning again to young people, Pope Leo XIV described them as "the hope of the country and of the Church," while acknowledging the dangers posed by unemployment, exclusion and social marginalisation.

"Investing in the education, training and entrepreneurship of young people is… a strategic choice for peace," he said, stressing that it is also key to preventing migration and combating social ills such as drug abuse and exploitation.

He noted with appreciation the deep spirituality of Cameroonian youth, which, when properly nurtured, can inspire commitment to peace, justice and solidarity.

The Pope encouraged greater interreligious dialogue and the involvement of religious leaders in mediation efforts, highlighting the Church's ongoing commitment to education, healthcare and charitable service for all, without distinction.

He expressed his desire for continued cooperation with civil authorities and international partners in promoting human dignity and reconciliation.

Concluding his address, Pope Leo XIV invoked God's blessing upon Cameroon and its people. "May God bless Cameroon," he said, "and grant the entire Cameroonian people… the grace to welcome the Kingdom of God and so build together a future of justice and peace."

The Pope's next appointment was a visit to the Ngul Zamba Orphanage. First addressing the children, the Pope expressed his joy at being with them and described the orphanage as a place that has become a true home. He emphasises the sense of family there, noting that the children share similar life experiences of hardship and reminded them that, above all, it is God who welcomes them as His children and draws them close with love.

"You form a true family here," he said, adding that their unity as brothers and sisters, gathered around Christ, gives them strength and allows them to face life's difficulties together.

The Pope acknowledged the challenges many of the children have faced, including loss, abandonment, and uncertainty. He encouraged them not to define their future by these experiences.

"You are called to a future that is greater than your wounds," he said, reminding them that God is close to those who suffer and knows each of them personally.

Turning then to the Gospel, Pope Leo XIV recalled that Jesus showed particular care for children and placed them at the centre of his attention. He told the children that Christ looks upon them today with the same concern and affection.

Pope Leo then spoke about the broader responsibility of society. In a world which is so often marked by indifference, he said, places like the orphanage are a reminder that people are called to care for one another. "In God's great family, no one is ever a stranger or forgotten," he said.

He then thanked the staff, volunteers, and religious sisters who care for the children, and praised their commitment and dedication.

Their work, he said, is a concrete expression of love, and it reflects God's mercy. By offering not only material support, but also presence and guidance, they provide the children with stability and hope for the future.

Bringing his greeting to a close, the Pope quoted Matthew's Gospel, noting that caring for the most vulnerable is a way of serving Christ Himself. He encouraged those working in the orphanage to continue their efforts with perseverance.

Finally, Pope Leo entrusted the children and staff to the care of the Virgin Mary, asking that she protect and support them, especially in times of difficulty.

LINKS

Watch highlights of the Welcome Ceremony: www.youtube.com/watch?v=AK0VOSeFCbg

Read Pope Leo's address to the authorities, civil society and diplomatic corps:
www.vatican.va/content/leo-xiv/en/speeches/2026/april/documents/20260415-camerun-autorita.html

Watch the Meeting with authorities, civil society and diplomatic corps: www.youtube.com/watch?v=XOdgkGSMLy8

Watch the visit to the Ngul Zamba Orphanage: www.youtube.com/watch?v=ParAO_ybeCc