The first American-born pontiff is officially heading to Africa. On Tuesday, January 13, 2026, diplomatic representatives in Luanda verified that the Pope Leo XIV visit to Angola is set for the coming months.
This announcement marks a strategic pivot for the new papacy. It signals a robust effort to solidify relationships with the Global South early in his tenure.
Vatican Envoy Announces Pope Leo XIV Visit to Angola
Archbishop Kryspin Dubiel, the Apostolic Nuncio, broke the news to reporters. While specific dates remain under discussion, the diplomatic machinery is already in motion.
“We are currently in the process of preparing the plan and program,” Dubiel stated.
The Archbishop urged the local population to begin spiritual preparations. Consequently, the government and local church hierarchies are coordinating to finalize the schedule.
President João Lourenço has formally extended an invitation. In response, organizers expect millions of faithful to mobilize for the event.
A Historic Return to Luanda
This trip ends a three-year hiatus of papal presence on the continent. The last pontiff to touch down on African soil was Pope Francis, who visited South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2023.
For Angola specifically, the wait has been much longer. Pope Benedict XVI was the last leader of the Catholic Church to visit, back in March 2009.
Moreover, the timing is deliberate. The 2026 pilgrimage coincides with the 450th anniversary of Luanda. Many locals view this as a “long-awaited homecoming.”
Demographics and the New Pontiff
Angola represents a vital stronghold for the church. The 2024 national census reveals that Catholicism is the dominant faith, claiming 44% of the population.
Meanwhile, Protestant denominations hold 35%, with traditional faiths comprising the remainder.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost of Chicago, brings a unique perspective to these demographics. Elected on May 8, 2025, the 70-year-old spent decades as a missionary in Peru.
Therefore, his connection to developing nations is personal rather than purely administrative.
Future Stops and Augustinian Roots
The itinerary may expand beyond Southern Africa. As a member of the Augustinian order, the Pope has expressed a distinct desire to visit Algeria.
His goal is to visit the birthplace of Saint Augustine of Hippo. This potential stop would underscore his commitment to interfaith dialogue in the region.
However, for now, all eyes are on Luanda. Further details regarding the Pope Leo XIV visit to Angola will emerge once the Holy See locks in the official dates.
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