Joseph Oyewole

Before his death, Pope Francis had left an indelible mark in the heart of millions across African not through grand political deals or sweeping economic reforms but through his unwavering commitment to peace, dignity and hope in some of the African countries wounded by war and insecurities.

During his Papacy, Pope Francis became an ambassador of peace visiting countries in Africa torn by civil wars, ethnic crisis and poverty. He carried the pains of war-torn countries in his hearts by frequently addressing social issues which includes poverty, conflict resolution, social justice and emphasizing the Church’s role in fostering peace in the Continent of Africa.

Since his papacy began in 2013, Pope Francis has traveled to the continent of Africa five times, visiting ten countries. His first trip occurred in November 2015, where he visited Kenya, Uganda, and the Central African Republic. During this journey, he highlighted the importance of inter-religious dialogue and addressed the need for social justice in regions plagued by violence and poverty. In Uganda, he engaged with local youth and clergy and paid homage to the Uganda Martyrs, emphasizing the significance of faith amidst adversity. His visit to the Central African Republic included a historic stop at a central mosque in Bangui, a simple act but one that sent a thunderous message that peace begins with courage and mercy is stronger than hate.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was consistent in championing peace initiatives, urging local and global leaders to take responsibility for sustainable development in Africa. His messages resonate deeply with the struggles against economic exploitation and social injustice, particularly highlighted during his 2023 visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan. During his historic visits in South Sudan, he knelt before the nation’s leaders, kissing their feet and begging them to choose peace over war. In Democratic Republic of Congo, he stood alongside victims of sexual violence, listening to their stories and showing them the compassion

Pope Francis championed dialogue between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria advocating for peace most especially in the Northern part of the country where religious violence has claimed countless lives. According to the Emeritus Archbishop of Abuja, Nigeria, Cardinal John Onaiyekan, he highlighted the Pope’s appeal for peace in Africa as a source of consolation and gratitude for those affected by violence and insecurity.

The memories of Pope Francis will continue to linger in the heart of millions of Africa for a long time because he was not just a Pope but a Father who cares about the continent of Africa. According to Father Jean-Marc Lunda, a priest in Kinshasa, he gave us something the world denies us, which is hope. Hope that our wounds are not the end of our story.

As the continent of Africa mourns the death of Pope Francis, he will be remembered as a steadfast advocate of peace, a man who walked among the broken, listened to their wounds and cried their tears. He has planted a seed of peace on African soil, though it looks like a mustard seed but will continue to serve as a shelter to many other countries in Africa.