Pope Leo XIV is set to embark on his first major international journey of 2026, with an official pastoral tour scheduled across four African nations Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea.

The Vatican confirmed that the multi-nation visit will focus on strengthening diplomatic and religious ties while addressing key social issues affecting the continent, including peacebuilding, youth empowerment, economic inequality, and interfaith cooperation. Africa continues to represent one of the fastest-growing regions for Catholicism, making the visit strategically important for the Church’s global mission.

During the tour, Pope Leo XIV is expected to celebrate large open-air Masses, meet with national leaders, engage with local clergy, and visit humanitarian and community development projects supported by Catholic institutions. The trip will also emphasize dialogue between Christian and Muslim communities, particularly in regions where religious coexistence plays a crucial role in national stability.

Preparations are already underway across the four host countries, with millions of faithful anticipated to attend the historic gatherings. The visit signals Pope Leo’s commitment to deepening the Church’s presence in Africa while amplifying the continent’s growing influence within global Catholic leadership.