Pope Francis concluded a multi-day apostolic journey to Africa on February 5, 2023, with a final appeal for peace on the continent. His visit included stops in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and South Sudan, where he met with political leaders, clergy, and victims of conflict.
During a large open-air mass in Kinshasa, the pontiff delivered a homily focused on reconciliation and forgiveness. He specifically called for an end to the exploitation and violence plaguing the DRC, urging political leaders to work for the common good and peace. His message emphasized that resources should benefit local populations, not fuel conflict.
The trip, which was originally scheduled for 2022 but postponed due to health concerns, was marked by the Pope's consistent theme of peace. In South Sudan, he participated in an ecumenical retreat with other Christian leaders, jointly pleading for an end to the country's civil strife. The visit underscored the Vatican's diplomatic focus on regions suffering from prolonged instability.
