Pope Leo called on Cameroonians to reject violence and embrace generosity during a Mass attended by around 120,000 people in the port city of Douala on Friday, in the largest event of his ongoing Africa tour.
Speaking at Japoma Stadium under heavy security, the pontiff urged worshippers not to lose hope despite hardship, warning against the lure of violence.
“Do not give in to distrust and discouragement,” he said. “Reject every form of abuse or violence, which deceives by promising easy gains but hardens the heart.”
Many attendees had gathered the night before, sleeping outside the stadium to secure a place at the Mass, as crowds filled surrounding streets with singing and dancing despite the heat.
Leo, the first U.S.-born pope, has adopted an increasingly forceful tone during his 10-day visit to Africa, repeatedly criticising global inequality and leaders who spend vast sums on war.
In Douala, he said many people in Cameroon suffer from “material and spiritual poverty” but stressed that solidarity and generosity could overcome scarcity.
Invoking the biblical story of the loaves and fishes, he told the crowd: “There is bread for everyone if it is given to everyone.”
While avoiding direct political references in his homily, Leo has in recent days condemned what he described as a world “ravaged by a handful of tyrants” and criticised “neocolonial” powers for undermining peace.
Later on Friday, speaking at the Catholic University of Central Africa in Yaounde, the pope warned of the “environmental and social devastation caused by the relentless pursuit of raw materials,” and said the continent “must be freed from the scourge of corruption,” drawing loud applause.
Cameroon faces multiple challenges, including a protracted Anglophone conflict that has killed thousands since 2017, as well as long-standing political tensions under President Paul Biya, who has ruled for more than four decades.
Despite this, Leo’s visit has drawn enthusiastic crowds, with thousands lining the streets to welcome him.
Bishop Leopold Bayemi Matjei described the visit as “a moment of great joy” for Cameroonian Catholics, expressing hope it would bring renewed optimism to the country.
Leo is scheduled to travel to Angola on Saturday as part of his four-nation Africa tour.