Douala, Cameroon — April 17, 2026 Pope Leo XIV concluded his landmark 11-day Africa tour with a powerful address to an estimated 120,000 people gathered at the Japoma Stadium in Douala.
The Mass marked the peak of his journey, which had previously brought him to the conflict — stricken city of Bamenda in Cameroon’s Northwest and Southwest regions.
The Pope’s message was unambiguous, as he called on the youth of Douala to reject violence and corruption in pursuit of the common good. “Do not give in to distrust and discouragement, “he exhorted. “Reject every form of abuse or violence, which deceives by promising easy gains but hardens the heart.”.
Security was bolstered for the event, with thousands of Cameroonians camping out overnight to secure a place in the crowd. Despite the challenges of the cold and mosquitoes, the enthusiasm for the Pope’s presence was palpable. Kevin Kaegam, a local resident, summed up the sentiment: “Since we want to see the supreme pontiff, we had no choice.”.
Pope Leo’s visit came at a critical time, as Cameroon faces a multitude of social and security crises, including the Anglophone conflict and the aftermath of last year’s deadly post-election protests.
The pontiff’s words were met with a chorus of support, with Bishop Leopold Bayemi Matjei declaring the visit a “moment of great joy “and hoping for divine blessings upon the nation.
The Mass was a testament to the Pope’s dedication to peace and non-violence, a message that struck a chord with the Cameroonians present.
The pontiff’s advocacy for reconciliation and stability in the conflict zones has been widely reported by sources like DW. Com and Vatican News, emphasizing his role in fostering peace in the region.
As the country navigates its challenges, the Pope’s call for unity and non-violence serves as a guiding light, offering hope and a hopeful path forward for the people of Cameroon.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 2*
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By This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: aljazeera
Source: Al Jazeera Staff, AP and Reuters
