The People’s Pope Dies At 88
What Pope Francis Meant to Africa
When Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, ascended to the papacy in 2013, few could have foreseen how deeply his leadership would resonate across the African continent. Now, following his death at age 88, millions of African Catholics—as well as leaders, clergy, and everyday believers—are mourning not just a Pope, but a man who many felt truly saw them.
With nearly 272 million Catholics across Africa—almost a fifth of the global Church—this continent is emerging as a spiritual epicenter. And Pope Francis made sure the world took notice.
From the slums of Nairobi to the war-torn neighborhoods of Bangui, Pope Francis didn’t just visit Africa—he walked with it. In 2015, during a historic visit to the Central African Republic, he broke barriers by entering a mosque in a conflict zone, praying with Muslim leaders and calling on people to reject hatred. His presence did more than comfort—it shifted the diplomatic and spiritual tone of an entire region.
"He was a tireless champion of the poor," said Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, echoing the sentiments of many African leaders. South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa called him a global advocate for inclusion and equality. His teachings on justice, reconciliation, and environmental stewardship spoke directly to African realities.
Pope Francis visited 10 African countries during his pontificate, including Kenya, Uganda, Egypt, Mozambique, Madagascar, Morocco, Mauritius, the DRC, and South Sudan. Each stop delivered a message tailored to local needs—whether peace, environmental protection, or interfaith dialogue.
In Kinshasa, journalist Kitsita Ndongo Rachel remembers breaking protocol just to receive his blessing. "He blessed me, and he blessed my rosary," she said, her voice trembling with emotion. "He spoke about justice for the Democratic Republic of Congo like no one else ever did."
In South Sudan, he made history once again—kneeling to kiss the feet of rival leaders, pleading for peace. Just weeks before his death, he wrote a final letter urging President Salva Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar to “prioritise reconciliation and development.”
Pope Francis didn’t just preach inclusion—he practiced it. He appointed African cardinals and bishops, elevated the voices of the Global South, and insisted that the Church's heart must beat with compassion for the poor and the displaced.
“He made our faith feel inclusive,” said Ghanaian Catholic Aba Amissah Quainoo. “He was really loved by all because of his stance on the poor and the marginalized,” added Rev George Obeng Appah.
His groundbreaking encyclical, Laudato Si, inspired a new wave of African climate activists. He boldly addressed corruption, exploitation, and systemic injustice, advocating for economic systems that respect both people and the planet.
Despite all this, many acknowledge that Africa remains underrepresented in top Vatican leadership. “The Catholic Church’s future is African, but it hasn’t yet translated into real influence at the Vatican,” said Charles Collins, editor of Crux.
Still, the tide is turning. “An African Pope is not a matter of if—but when,” said Father Stan Chu Ilo of the Pan-African Catholic Theological Network.
From Nairobi to Niamey, Africa remembers a Pope who loved boldly, led humbly, and served selflessly. His request to be buried in the modest Basilica of St. Mary Major rather than beneath the Vatican underscores the life he lived: grounded, simple, and for the people.
In life, Pope Francis brought the Church closer to Africa. In death, he leaves behind a legacy of hope, dignity, and justice—etched not only in the halls of the Vatican but in the hearts of millions across the continent.
May his soul rest in peace. May his voice continue to echo in our prayers—and in our pursuit of a more just world.
