The Minister of Communication and Government Spokesperson, Rene Emmanuel Sadi, on April 8, 2026 hosted a press briefing at his ministerial department in Yaounde to discuss the upcoming Apostolic Visit of Pope Leo XIV.
Scheduled from April 15 to 18, 2026, this visit marks the Pope’s first tour of the African continent since his accession to the papacy on May 8, 2025. Minister Sadi emphasized that this visit is the fourth time a Roman Pontiff has visited Cameroon, following the historical precedents set by Pope John Paul II in 1985 and 1995, and Pope Benedict XVI in 2009.
The four-day itinerary will take the Holy Father to the cities of Yaounde, Bamenda, and Douala. During his stay, Pope Leo XIV will be received by President Paul Biya in his capacity as the Head of State of the Vatican. The Apostolic activities planned include the celebration of Holy Mass in each city, as well as meetings with bishops, church leaders, the Catholic faithful, and representatives from civil society.
Minister Sadi noted that the Catholic Church remains the state’s leading private partner in social sectors, particularly in healthcare and education, operating institutions like the Catholic University of Central Africa.
Minister Sadi highlighted the long-standing and fruitful diplomatic ties between Cameroon and the Holy See, which were formally established in 1966.
He pointed out that the social significance of Catholicism is profound in Cameroon, with approximately 38% of the population identifying as Catholic and coexisting peacefully with other religious denominations.
The Minister credited the excellence of these relations to the diplomatic efforts of President Paul Biya, whose administration has worked closely with the Vatican to foster a spirit of reconciliation, justice, and peace.
Concluding the briefing, the Minister assured the public that all necessary arrangements have been made under the auspices of the President to ensure the visit’s success. Logistics including accreditation procedures for journalists, the establishment of dedicated press centers, and organized transport between visit sites are already in place.
Minister Sadi called upon media practitioners to provide professional and prominent coverage of this “historic event,” noting that the entire Cameroonian population is eagerly awaiting the arrival of the Supreme Pontiff.
