Empower our youth, champion justice and peace – Africa’s Bishops to Pope Leo XIV

The Catholic Church in Africa has called on Pope Leo XIV to prioritise justice, peace, and the dignity of the poor and marginalized, and to help unlock the continent’s full potential by empowering its youth. This strong appeal was contained in a statement issued by the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) two days after the election of the new Pope.

In what is widely seen as a hopeful yet bold message, African bishops urged the first American Pope to work closely with the continent’s fast-growing Catholic population to address pressing challenges through Christ-centered leadership and global solidarity.

“We trust that Pope Leo XIV’s pastoral wisdom and evangelical zeal will reinforce the Church’s commitment to justice, peace, and the dignity of all people, particularly the poor, the marginalized, and those suffering the consequences of conflict, inequality, and neglect,” the bishops said.

Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of the United States, was elected Supreme Pontiff on May 8 and is the first American to lead the Catholic Church. His election has drawn global attention not only for its historical significance but also for the spiritual direction and leadership style expected of him, especially in a time marked by complex global challenges and deep moral questions.

Signed by Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo, Archbishop of Kinshasa and President of SECAM, the statement also placed a strong emphasis on youth empowerment as central to Africa’s future.

“We believe his leadership will unlock Africa’s full potential, empowering our youth to become agents of positive change, inspired by the Gospel.”

The bishops described the new Pope as a “providential gift” to the Church and reaffirmed Africa’s full communion and readiness to collaborate with the Holy Father in addressing urgent continental needs, including poverty, conflict resolution, access to education and healthcare, interreligious dialogue, and environmental stewardship.

Their message also reflects Africa’s rising spiritual and demographic influence within the global Church. With a rapidly expanding Catholic population and a youthful, dynamic Church, the continent stands poised to shape the future of Catholicism in the decades ahead.

“Africa, rich in culture, history, and deep-rooted spirituality, remains an indispensable partner in the mission of the universal Church,” the statement noted.

As Pope Leo XIV begins his ministry, Africa’s bishops have not only pledged their support but have laid down a clear and hopeful vision, a Church that listens to the peripheries, acts in justice, and sees young people not as problems to fix but as protagonists of renewal and agents of hope.