The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first pontiff from North America, has been warmly received across the African continent. Numerous heads of state praised this historic moment for the Catholic Church, hailing the new pope’s message of peace and dialogue amid a tense global context.
American Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was elected the 267th sovereign pontiff, choosing the name Leo XIV. His appointment has sparked a wave of enthusiasm throughout Africa, where many view his papacy as a beacon of spiritual and diplomatic renewal.
In Senegal, President Bassirou Diomaye Faye extended his “warm congratulations” to the new pope, expressing hopes for a papacy marked by interreligious dialogue, peace, and human fraternity.
In Angola, President João Lourenço—also current Chair of the African Union—described the election as “the result of well-considered consensus” within the Church, expressing hope that Leo XIV would contribute to peacebuilding in Africa and beyond.
Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio saluted the pope’s “unshakeable faith and devotion,” voicing his wish for a pontificate grounded in unity, compassion, and hope.
From Libreville, the Gabonese president sent his best wishes for a fruitful ministry, praying that it would flourish in faith and love.
In Chad, President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno hailed the election as a “clear success” for the Church. In South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa called it a “powerful moment,” hoping that “the conclave’s white smoke helps dissipate the dark clouds of military conflict.”
In his first public address from St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV called for a Church that is “open and fraternal,” dedicated to mission, listening, and welcome.
“Like this square,” he said to the crowd, “the Church must remain open to all who need our charity, our presence, and our love.”