Angola

Angola is a country in Africa that was recently visited by Pope Leo XIV as part of his 11-day apostolic journey to the continent in April 2026. The Pope's visit to Angola, the third leg of his tour, has brought the country into the news due to his focus on its history and current challenges. He held a large Mass near Luanda, urging Angolans to overcome divisions and corruption, referencing the country's war-scarred past. A significant part of his visit included praying at the Sanctuary of Mama Muxima, a Catholic shrine located at a former hub of the African slave trade during Portuguese colonial rule, where he acknowledged the suffering of Angolans. The Pope's presence highlights Angola's historical significance in the slave trade and its ongoing struggles with corruption and national unity.