Bamenda: Pope Leo XIV has strongly warned against the misuse of religion for military economic and political interests during a peace meeting in Bamenda in northwest Cameroon.
Speaking to religious leaders community members and victims of the ongoing conflict the Pope said it is dangerous when people manipulate the name of God for their own gain. He cautioned that such actions drag what is sacred into darkness and deepen divisions among people.
Pope was addressing a gathering at the Cathedral of St Joseph where testimonies were shared by Christian and Muslim leaders traditional authorities and families affected by violence. He praised their courage and said their shared suffering has strengthened unity and faith.
Reflecting on the long crisis in the region he noted that despite years of conflict religious communities have come together to promote peace and dialogue. He described Bamenda as a place of hope calling it a city on a hill that continues to shine even in difficult times.
At the same time he delivered a strong message to those driving conflict. He said those who profit from war ignore a simple truth that destruction can happen in a moment but rebuilding takes a lifetime. He expressed concern that huge amounts of money are spent on weapons while very little is invested in healing education and rebuilding lives.
He also criticised the exploitation of African resources saying wealth taken from the land is often used to fund violence and instability instead of supporting development.
Pope thanked caregivers especially women who support victims of trauma often in dangerous and unrecognised conditions. He encouraged them to continue their work as a sign of hope for society.
Calling for change he urged people to reject violence and choose a path of fraternity and shared humanity. He said peace is not something created artificially but something discovered when people accept one another as brothers and sisters.
He concluded by inviting everyone to take part in what he called a quiet revolution of love and solidarity stressing that even in a divided world it is ordinary people who keep hope alive.