By Boris Esono Nwenfor
BUEA, PAV – Pope Leo XIV has called on Cameroonians to embrace peace, justice, and unity amid ongoing national challenges. Addressing President Paul Biya, members of government, the diplomatic corps, and civil society leaders, the Pontiff described Cameroon as “Africa in miniature,” praising its cultural diversity as a strength and a foundation for lasting peace.
“This diversity is not a weakness, but a treasure,” he said. “It is a promise of fraternity and a solid foundation for building lasting peace.”
In a speech marked by urgency and compassion, the Pope addressed the conflicts affecting the North West, South West, and Far North regions, acknowledging the human toll of violence and instability. “Behind the statistics are faces, stories, shattered hopes,” he said, urging the country to reject what he termed “the logic of violence and war.”
Repeating a message he has emphasised globally, Pope Leo XIV declared: “The world thirsts for peace… Enough of wars,” calling for a “disarmed peace” rooted in justice, trust, and reconciliation. He stressed that peace must go beyond rhetoric and become a lived reality, anchored in both personal conduct and public institutions.
Governance as Service
Drawing on the teachings of Saint Augustine, the Pontiff reminded leaders that authority is a responsibility rooted in service, not domination. “Those who command are at the service of those whom they appear to command,” he quoted, urging public officials to govern with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to the common good.
He emphasised that transparency, respect for the rule of law, and the fight against corruption are essential to restoring public trust. “It is necessary to break the chains of corruption that disfigure authority,” he said, warning against the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of national development.
A significant portion of the Pope’s message focused on the role of young people and civil society in shaping Cameroon’s future. He described youth as “the hope of the country,” while cautioning that unemployment and exclusion could fuel frustration and instability. Investing in education, training, and entrepreneurship, he noted, is key to building lasting peace and preventing social decay.
The Pontiff also praised the role of civil society, particularly women, religious leaders, and community organisations, in fostering dialogue, supporting victims of conflict, and promoting national cohesion. “They are the first to intervene when tensions arise,” he said, adding that their contributions are essential to building a more stable and inclusive society.
A Vision of Unity and Renewal
Reflecting on past papal visits by Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, Pope Leo XIV challenged Cameroon to assess its progress in advancing reconciliation, justice, and unity. “Where do we stand? What remains to be done?” he asked, urging both leaders and citizens to engage in honest reflection and decisive action.
He called for stronger collaboration between state institutions and communities, insisting that governance must be inclusive and attentive to the needs of all, especially the most vulnerable.
The Pope reaffirmed the Holy See’s commitment to strengthening ties with Cameroon, grounded in mutual respect, human dignity, and religious freedom.
He also highlighted the role of faith and interreligious dialogue in promoting peace, warning against extremism while encouraging cooperation among religious communities.
“The Catholic Church in Cameroon… wishes to continue serving all citizens without distinction,” he said, pledging ongoing collaboration with public authorities to advance human dignity and reconciliation.
Pope Leo is visiting Cameroon as part of a 10-day tour of Africa, during which he has continued to offer an outspoken message of peace, anti-corruption, and social justice. He arrived after visiting Algeria, his first stop on the trip.
His three-day visit to Cameroon will include a “peace meeting” in Bamenda, North West region, that has been engulfed in fighting from separatist forces, which have announced a three-day pause in hostilities during the pope’s visit.
