editor
As the Catholic Church prepares to enter a period of reflection and transition following the death of Pope Francis, a quiet but powerful hope is rising across Africa: the possibility of seeing one of their own chosen to lead the global Church.
Africa is the fastest-growing region for Catholicism, a fact underscored by Vatican data released last month. With religion deeply woven into everyday life across the continent, many African Catholics believe that the time has come for their voices—and their leaders—to be more fully represented in the Church’s highest office.
In Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, Father Charles Yapi spoke after a service held in memory of the late pontiff. “To have a Black pope would revive the Christian faith in Africa and change people’s views of this continent. It would show that an African can hold this sacred office with dignity and grace,” he said.
Although no formal frontrunners have been announced, several African cardinals have quietly gained recognition both within and beyond the Vatican. Among them is Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson of Ghana, 76, a respected voice on environmental justice and peacebuilding, who has served in various senior roles in the Roman Curia.
Another prominent figure is Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65, the Archbishop of Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Known for his advocacy for human rights and transparency, Ambongo has earned respect as both a spiritual leader and social reformer. Also in the spotlight is Cardinal Ignace Bessi Dogbo, 63, from Côte d’Ivoire, who has risen steadily through Church ranks with a reputation for humility and service.
While the enthusiasm is palpable, especially across African congregations, insiders close to the Vatican remain cautious. A senior Church observer noted that African candidates, while qualified and respected, may not have had the same level of international exposure or media scrutiny as their Western counterparts.
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These factors, combined with internal Church politics, could affect their chances.
Still, there is precedent—though distant—for an African pope. Scholars have pointed to early leaders of the Church, such as Pope Miltiades in the fourth century, who is believed to have been of African origin. But since then, the papacy has remained firmly Eurocentric.
For many African Catholics, electing a pope from their continent would go beyond symbolism. It would reflect the Church’s shifting center of gravity, and acknowledge the growing spiritual and cultural contributions of African Catholics to global Christianity.
“We’re ready,” said a young worshipper leaving a service in Nairobi. “Africa is ready. The world is ready.”
