Pope Leo III calls for unity, peace during Angola visit

LUANDA: Pope Leo III addressed a crowd of nearly 100,000 people in Luanda on Sunday, urging Angolans to overcome divisions and embrace lasting peace after decades of conflict.

Speaking during a Mass held near the capital, the pope described Angola as a “beautiful yet wounded country,” referencing its 27-year civil war from 1975 to 2002. He called on citizens to build a future free from hatred and violence.

The gathering, one of the largest events of his Africa tour, took place in Kilamba, where thousands arrived before dawn despite hot and humid conditions. The crowd cheered and sang as the pope passed through in his popemobile.

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At the conclusion of the Mass, the pontiff extended his message beyond Angola, calling for an end to global conflicts. He urged an immediate halt to the war in Ukraine, stressing that dialogue must prevail over violence. He also welcomed the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon as a positive step.

During his visit, Pope Leo III also addressed issues of inequality and governance. In a speech to political leaders, he criticised the exploitation of Africa’s natural resources and denounced leaders who fail to deliver on promises of prosperity.

He urged governments to prioritise public welfare over corporate interests, warning that history would judge their actions.

Angola, one of sub-Saharan Africa’s leading oil producers, continues to face economic challenges, with a large portion of its population living in poverty. More than half of its citizens identify as Catholic, making the pope’s visit particularly significant.

Many attendees said the pope’s message resonated deeply, expressing hope that his call for unity and reflection would inspire meaningful change and guide the country toward a more peaceful future.