Pope Leo XIV has called on Angola to heal long-standing divisions during a series of major public events that drew an estimated 130,000 people, underscoring the significance of his visit to the country. Speaking during a large open-air Mass in Kilamba and a pilgrimage to the shrine of Muxima on April 19, 2026, the pontiff urged Angolans to embrace unity and reconciliation after decades of conflict, as reported by Reuters.
Addressing crowds near the capital Luanda, the pope described Angola as a nation still marked by the scars of its 27-year civil war, encouraging citizens to move beyond “enmity and division” and work toward a shared future. Around 100,000 faithful attended the Mass alone, reflecting strong public engagement with his message of hope and renewal, according to AP News.
During his visit to the historic Muxima shrine, a site linked to the transatlantic slave trade, Pope Leo also highlighted Angola’s deeper historical wounds, calling for love, peace, and justice to replace cycles of violence and exploitation. He further criticised governance failures and urged leaders to prioritise citizens over extractive economic interests.
The Angola stop forms part of a broader multi-country African tour aimed at promoting peace, social justice, and economic fairness across the continent. His message in Angola reflects a wider call for reconciliation and inclusive development, positioning the country’s healing process as central to its long-term stability and progress.
