Pope Leo XIV arrived in Cameroon on April 15 to a tremendous welcome as thousands of joyous citizens lined the street to welcome his convoy. Cameroon is a predominantly Christian and especially Catholic nation. He was received at the presidential palace by President Paul Biya, 93, who has been in power since 1982.
In the first speech of his visit, the Pope recalled the teachings of Saint Augustine. Pope Leo emphasized that “serving one’s country means dedicating oneself, with a clear mind and an upright conscience, to the common good of all people in the nation. This includes dedication to both the majority of the population and the minorities, as well as their mutual harmony.”
This is a call to responsibility from both the ruling class and the population to work for peace, reconciliation, and unity in a country marked by “the tensions and violence that have afflicted certain regions of the Northwest, Southwest and Far North,” as covered by Fides.org.
The Pope said that “civil society must be recognized as a vital force for national cohesion.” “Cameroon is ready for this transition! Associations, women’s and youth organizations, trade unions, humanitarian NGOs as well as traditional and religious leaders all play an irreplaceable role in weaving the fabric of social peace.” He added that the government needs to respond to the demands of “transparency in the management of public resources and respect for the rule of law.”
Addressing the youth, the Pope said, “Young people represent the hope of the country and of the Church. Their energy and creativity are priceless treasures. Of course, when unemployment and social exclusion persist, frustration can lead to violence. Investing in the education, training and entrepreneurship of young people is, therefore, a strategic choice for peace.” “Thankfully, young people in Cameroon possess a deep spirituality that still resists the homogenizing influence of the market. It is a source of energy that gives value to their dreams, which are rooted in the prophecies that nourish their prayers and their hearts,” added the pope, concluding by reaffirming the Church’s commitment in Cameroon to “work in good faith with civil authorities and all those involved in efforts to promote human dignity and reconciliation.”
