The death of Pope Francis has triggered an outpouring of condolences and reflections from across Africa, where the Catholic Church plays a central role in spiritual and social life. Political leaders, major religious institutions, and millions of ordinary citizens are mourning a figure remembered for his humility, compassion, and dedication to justice.
As the global Catholic Church prepares for a conclave, many in Africa are turning their attention to the possibility of an African successor — including Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson.
Condolences Across the Continent
From presidents to religious leaders, figures across Africa have expressed their sorrow at the passing of Pope Francis, who many saw as a prominent advocate for the Global South.
Nigerian President Bola Tinubu said:
“Pope Francis was a bridge-builder, a voice of reason and compassion. Africa joins the world in mourning a truly remarkable man of God.”
Kenyan President William Ruto wrote:
“We join the Catholic Church and the global Christian community in mourning the passing of Pope Francis.
This is a big loss to the Catholic faithful and the Christian world.
He exemplified servant leadership through his humility, his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and justice, and his deep compassion for the poor and the vulnerable.
His strong ethical and moral convictions inspired millions across the world.
May his soul Rest in Eternal Peace.”
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also offered his tribute through social media:
“I extend my deepest condolences on the passing of Pope Francis. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his legacy of compassion, humility, and service to humanity continue to inspire generations to come.”
Religious Leaders React
Across Africa, the Catholic hierarchy has organized memorial Masses in cathedrals and parishes, while leaders from other faiths also expressed their condolences.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo of the Democratic Republic of Congo called Pope Francis’s death “a profound loss for humanity,” highlighting the Pope’s frequent engagement with Africa and his commitment to peace and development across the continent.
From Cairo: Al-Azhar Honors “My Brother in Humanity”
A particularly moving tribute came from Egypt’s Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Sheikh Ahmed Al-Tayeb, who described Pope Francis as “a distinguished humanitarian and my brother in humanity.”
“He lived a life devoted to serving humanity, advocating for the oppressed, and supporting interfaith and intercultural dialogue,” the Grand Imam said.
He emphasized the Pope’s role in championing human dignity and recalled their cooperation on the Document on Human Fraternity in 2019, a milestone in Muslim-Christian dialogue.
The Grand Imam also praised Pope Francis for his strong stance against Islamophobia and his “courageous and fair” position on the aggression in Gaza, adding:
“His legacy will endure in the bridges he built between Al-Azhar and the Vatican, and between peoples of all faiths.”
Could the Next Pope Be African?
As the papal conclave approaches, speculation is rising regarding the possibility of an African pope. Many eyes are on Cardinal Peter Turkson, one of Africa’s most senior and respected Catholic figures.
Born in Ghana in 1948, Turkson has long been considered a papabile — a potential pope. He has served in prominent Vatican positions under three pontiffs and currently leads the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. Known for his advocacy of economic justice, climate action, and global equity, Turkson represents a vision of the Church that emphasizes social justice and compassion for the marginalized.
Fluent in multiple languages and respected worldwide, Turkson is widely regarded as a candidate who could make history.
Africa’s Growing Voice in the Church
Pope Francis often recognized the significance of Africa to the future of the Catholic Church. With over 250 million Catholics and a rapidly growing young population, Africa is becoming a key force in global Catholicism.
As the College of Cardinals prepares to meet in Rome, Africa stands both in mourning and in anticipation, watching with hope as the future of the papacy unfolds.