Yaounde: On the fifth day of his Apostolic Journey in Africa, Pope Leo XIV called on people everywhere to take responsibility in addressing global hunger, as he celebrated Mass with about 120000 faithful in Douala, Cameroon’s economic centre.
Speaking during the Mass, Pope reflected on the Gospel story of the feeding of the five thousand. He said the message is clear that hunger can be overcome when people are willing to share. He invited everyone to see the suffering of those who lack food and ask themselves what they can do to help.
He reminded the crowd that there is enough food for everyone if it is shared fairly. He said no one would go hungry if people choose to give rather than take selfishly.
Cameroon continues to face serious challenges, with many people living in poverty and millions struggling with hunger. Against this background, the Pope’s message focused on solidarity and responsibility.
After the Mass, Pope visited a Catholic hospital in Douala, where he spent time in prayer and met patients and staff. He later travelled to Yaoundé to meet students at the Catholic University of Central Africa.
Addressing the students, the Pope encouraged them to develop what he called a holy restlessness, a desire to seek truth and work for a better world. He said universities should help form free and responsible minds, especially in a time marked by individualism and superficial thinking.
He also spoke about the growing influence of artificial intelligence, warning that it is shaping how people think and understand the world. He stressed the importance of studying the humanities to better understand the deeper forces behind technology, including economic interests and hidden biases.
Later in the day, the Pope met religious leaders representing many congregations working across Cameroon. They shared their experiences of helping young people, displaced families, and victims of violence and human trafficking.
Pope encouraged them to continue their mission with courage, saying that consecrated life requires a strong commitment to serve those most in need and to bring hope and compassion to a troubled world.