Pope Ends Africa Tour in Equatorial Guinea, Raises Attention on Human Rights and Governance

Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Equatorial Guinea for the final stop of his Africa tour, where his outspoken messages on governance and human rights are expected to draw global attention.

The Pope departed Angola after a three-day visit and is scheduled to arrive in the Central African country around midday (1100 GMT). Equatorial Guinea has been led since 1979 by Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, the world’s longest-serving non-royal head of state.

This visit follows that of Pope John Paul II four decades ago, when he became the first pontiff to visit the oil-rich nation, where Catholicism remains dominant due to its Spanish colonial history.

During his African tour, Pope Leo has taken a firmer stance against oppression, exploitation, and injustice, shifting from his previously more reserved diplomatic tone.

His arrival in Equatorial Guinea is being closely watched due to longstanding concerns about political freedoms and human rights, with critics pointing to restrictions on opposition activity and press freedom. Many dissidents reportedly live in exile abroad.

A Malabo trader, Anita Oye, expressed skepticism:

“The pope is coming for the country’s leaders. His visit won’t do anything for us…”

Despite significant oil wealth, poverty remains widespread, and the country is frequently criticised for corruption and repression by rights groups.

In the capital Malabo, streets have been decorated with Vatican imagery, national flags, and banners welcoming the pontiff. Religious groups have also prepared hymns in his honour.

Resident Juan Raul welcomed the visit, saying:

“This will bring spiritual change and motivate many people to go to mass.”

However, opposition leader Andres Esono Ondo warned that the visit could place additional financial strain on citizens already facing hardship.

Pope Leo is expected to address government officials, diplomats, and civil society leaders, before visiting Mongomo, holding a mass in Bata, and paying tribute to victims of a 2021 military explosion that killed over 108 people.

He will conclude his 11-day African tour with a large public mass in Malabo stadium.

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