By Nfor Hanson Nchanji
YAOUNDÉ, Cameroon — Calling for an immediate end to the “profound suffering” in Cameroon’s North-West and South-West regions, Pope Leo XIV addressed national leaders on Wednesday with a plea to move beyond military force and embrace a “disarmed peace” to heal the divided nation.
The pontiff arrived in the capital for his 2026 African journey, meeting with President Paul Biya and the diplomatic corps. He specifically addressed the humanitarian toll of the regional crisis, noting the “lives lost, displaced families, and children deprived of school” in the conflict-torn areas. In a sharp departure from political rhetoric, the Pope insisted that the “thirst for justice” among the population must be met with dialogue rather than defiance.
“Peace is not decreed; it is welcomed and lived,” the Pope said. He challenged authorities to view Cameroon’s vast diversity, represented by over 200 ethnic groups; not as a source of “fragility,” but as a “treasure” and a promise of fraternity. He advocated for a peace that is “disarming” in its nature, capable of resolving conflict by restoring trust and empathy across cultural and linguistic divides.
Beyond regional security, the Holy Father spoke candidly about the “idolatry” of corruption. He warned that the pursuit of personal gain at the expense of the public good “defigures authority” and strips institutions of their credibility. He urged a courageous qualitative leap in governance, calling on leaders to serve with a “lucid and upright conscience” that prioritizes the most vulnerable citizens.
Turning to the nation’s youth, the Pope expressed deep concern over a “hemorrhage of talent” as young people flee insecurity and economic stagnation. He argued that the only way to combat the “scourges” of drug abuse and exploitation is through strategic investment in education and entrepreneurship, providing a future where hope does not die on migration routes.
The Pope concluded by invoking the spirit of Saint Augustine, reminding leaders that true authority is a service of compassion. He pledged the Catholic Church’s continued collaboration in promoting human dignity, calling on all Cameroonians, Christians and non-Christians alike, to become “tireless artisans of peace” in building a shared future.
