Pope Leo XIV Condemns Extractivism and Calls for Peace During African Tour

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Angola on April 18, 2026, as part of his four-nation African tour, delivering a powerful message against the "logic of extractivism" that he claims has led to suffering and exploitation across the continent. Speaking to Angolan authorities, civil society leaders, and diplomats in Luanda, the pontiff urged the country to break free from a cycle of interests that commodifies human life and natural resources. Angola, rich in oil and minerals, has a significant portion of its population living in poverty, with over 30% subsisting on less than $2.15 a day, according to the World Bank.

CruxFrance 24Pope Leo speaks out against tyranny, exploitation on Angola visitPope Condemns “The Extractivist Logic” That Causes Deaths and Catastrophes in Africa

In his address, Leo highlighted Angola's painful history of colonial exploitation and civil war, stating, “It is necessary to break this cycle of interests, which reduces reality, and even life itself, to mere commodities.” He emphasized the need for a development model that prioritizes social justice and environmental sustainability, criticizing the corruption that has plagued the nation since its independence from Portugal in 1975.

France 24

Angola's history is marked by a brutal civil war that lasted from 1975 until 2002, resulting in over half a million deaths. Despite its wealth in natural resources, including being one of Africa's largest oil producers and a leading diamond supplier, the country continues to struggle with deep-rooted corruption. Former President José Eduardo dos Santos, who ruled for 38 years, was accused of embezzling billions from public funds, leaving many Angolans in poverty. Current President João Lourenço has vowed to combat corruption, but critics argue that his efforts may be politically motivated rather than aimed at genuine reform.

France 24

Pope Leo's remarks in Angola follow similar statements made during his visit to Cameroon, where he condemned global leaders, including a "handful of tyrants," for prioritizing military spending over humanitarian needs. His comments come amid a public dispute with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has criticized the pope's stance on various international issues, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Iran. Leo stated, “The world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants,” urging leaders to redirect resources from warfare to healing and education.

NPR

In his speeches, Pope Leo has consistently called for peace, justice, and reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts. He has also urged Angolan authorities to prioritize the common good over personal interests, stating, “History will then vindicate you, even if in the near term some may oppose you.” His visit to Angola is seen as a significant moment for the Catholic Church, which plays a crucial role in the country's social fabric.

Crux

• “It is necessary to break this cycle of interests, which reduces reality, and even life itself, to mere commodities.” — Pope Leo XIV

France 24

• “The world is being ravaged by a handful of tyrants,” — Pope Leo XIV

NPR

• “I desire to meet you in the spirit born of peace and to affirm that your people possess treasures that cannot be bought or stolen,” — Pope Leo XIV

France 24

• “How much suffering, how many deaths, how many social and environmental disasters are brought about by this logic of extractivism!” — Pope Leo XIV

France 24

Pope Leo XIV's visit to Angola will culminate in a significant open-air mass in Kilamba, followed by a visit to the pilgrimage site of Muxima, where he will pray the rosary. His tour aims to highlight the need for social justice and peace in a region marked by historical exploitation and ongoing challenges. The pope's messages resonate not only within Angola but also across Africa, where similar issues of corruption, poverty, and conflict persist.

Pope Leo speaks out against tyranny, exploitation on Angola visit