Pope Leo XIV Calls for Peace, Condemns Tyranny in Cameroon

Pope Leo XIV’s

Visit Highlights Cameroon Conflict and Calls for Peace Pope Leo XIV traveled to Cameroon’s western Anglophone region, where he delivered a message condemning war, exploitation, and the manipulation of religion for political and economic gain.

His visit to the city of Bamenda drew large crowds and included a peace meeting with religious and traditional leaders aimed at promoting interfaith cooperation to end the nearly decade-long conflict. The pope emphasized the need for a “decisive change of course” away from violence and resource exploitation, stating that the world is “ravaged by a handful of tyrants” but held together by many supportive people.

-Israeli war in Iran.

Context of the Anglophone Conflict and Resource Exploitation

The conflict in Cameroon’s two English-speaking regions began in 2017 when separatists launched a rebellion seeking independence from the French-speaking majority.

The conflict has resulted in over 6,000 deaths and displaced more than 600,000 people. S. for conspiracy to fund separatists and arrests in Belgium related to fundraising efforts. Cameroon’s economy relies heavily on resource extraction, including oil, natural gas, cobalt, bauxite, iron ore, gold, and diamonds.

The pope highlighted how profits from these resources often fund weapons, perpetuating violence and instability. While French and English companies have historically dominated mining, Chinese firms have recently increased their presence, especially in gold mining.

Temporary Ceasefire and Political Challenges Separatist

fighters declared a three-day pause in hostilities to allow the pope safe passage, described by a separatist spokesperson as a commitment to responsibility and respect for human dignity amid ongoing conflict.

Despite this, peace talks mediated internationally remain stalled, with both sides accusing each other of bad faith. During his visit, the pope also addressed Cameroon’s leadership, urging them to confront corruption and human rights abuses and to act as unifying forces rather than sources of division.

This direct appeal came amid the country’s long-standing political challenges under a leader who has been in power since 1982.

Ongoing Tensions with U.

S. S. President Donald Trump, who has publicly attacked the pope on social media. S. ” >"Blessed are the peacemakers! " — Pope Leo XIV, April 2026 (Al Jazeera) The pope’s visit to Cameroon and his broader messages reflect ongoing global concerns about war, exploitation, and the role of religion in conflicts, underscoring the challenges faced by regions affected by violence and political instability.