Pope Leo denounced global leaders who fuel wars and exploit religion for political ends, saying the world is being “ravaged by a handful of tyrants,” during a visit to Cameroon’s conflict-hit anglophone region.
Speaking in Bamenda on Thursday, the pontiff criticised governments that pour vast resources into warfare while neglecting humanitarian needs, calling for a “decisive change of course.”
“The masters of war pretend not to know that it takes only a moment to destroy, yet often a lifetime is not enough to rebuild,” he said, adding that billions spent on destruction could instead fund education, healthcare and recovery.
Leo also condemned the use of religious language to justify violence, warning against what he described as the manipulation of faith for military, political and economic gain.
“Woe to those who manipulate religion and the very name of God… dragging that which is sacred into darkness,” he said.
His remarks come amid repeated criticism from Donald Trump, who has targeted the pope on social media during his Africa tour. Leo has largely avoided responding directly, but has remained outspoken on global conflicts, including the ongoing US-Israeli war on Iran.
The pope’s visit to Cameroon’s English-speaking regions — where nearly a decade-long conflict between government forces and separatists has killed thousands — has raised cautious hopes for renewed attention to the crisis.
According to the International Crisis Group, more than 6,500 people have been killed and over 500,000 displaced since fighting began.
During his trip, Leo also urged authorities under Paul Biya to tackle corruption and resist external pressures, while encouraging religious leaders to play a role in mediation efforts.
Separatist groups announced a temporary ceasefire during the pope’s visit, allowing civilians to move more freely in affected areas.