Malabo: Pope Leo XIV is set to visit Equatorial Guinea as part of his first pastoral journey to Africa since becoming pope in 2025. The visit has been confirmed by both Church leaders and government officials in the country, although the Vatican has not yet announced the exact dates or full programme.
This will be only the second time a pope visits Equatorial Guinea. The last papal visit took place in 1982 when Pope John Paul II travelled to the country. For many Catholics, the upcoming visit is seen as a historic moment and a sign of the Vatican’s renewed attention to Africa.
Church officials say the trip will focus on encouraging the local Catholic community and strengthening the role of the Church in education, healthcare and social service. Catholic institutions already play an important role in schools and hospitals, especially in rural areas where public services are limited.
Equatorial Guinea is Africa’s only Spanish speaking country and has strong historical links with the Catholic Church. The country is home to the Archdiocese of Malabo and several dioceses, serving a large Catholic population. Local bishops have said they hope the Pope’s visit will bring spiritual renewal and draw global attention to the needs of ordinary people.
President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has welcomed the planned visit and described it as a symbol of good relations between the state and the Vatican. Government officials are working with Church authorities to prepare for the event.
The visit to Equatorial Guinea is expected to be part of a wider African tour in 2026. Reports suggest that other countries such as Angola and Cameroon may also be included, though these plans have not yet been officially confirmed by the Vatican.
While details of the schedule are still awaited, the confirmation of the visit has already raised expectations among Catholics in the country. Many see it as a rare opportunity to meet the Pope and as a sign of unity with the global Church.