'Chains of corruption must be broken' - Pope Leo XIV tells Cameroon
Pope Leo XIV has urged Cameroon’s leaders to tackle corruption and strengthen peace and justice, as President Paul Biya welcomed him to Yaoundé for what he described as a “historic visit.”
Addressing officials, the pontiff called for integrity in governance, warning that “the chains of corruption that disfigure authority by emptying it of its credibility must be broken.” He said public institutions should promote unity and protect citizens, adding that “an authentic peace is born when everyone feels protected, heard and respected.”
The pope also emphasised dialogue, human rights and support for vulnerable groups, urging leaders to turn past divisions into opportunities for renewal. He highlighted the importance of investing in young people, describing it as a “strategic choice for peace” and long-term stability.
President Biya welcomed the visit, saying it came at a time of global uncertainty and conflict, and praised the pope’s message of peace. Leo XIV is on his first apostolic trip to Africa, which includes stops in Algeria, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, with his Cameroon visit running from April 15 to 18.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
