Pope's upcoming trip to Africa begins with visit to Algeria

Concluding his first overseas trip as pope, Pope Leo XIV announced on Tuesday his intention to travel to Algeria in 2026, marking the beginning of a possible African tour. Speaking during a press briefing on the papal plane after a six-day visit to Turkey and Lebanon, the US-born pontiff shared his plans for the next international journey.

"I am hoping to make a trip to Africa, which might be my forthcoming visit," he said. He specifically mentioned Algeria, expressing a desire to explore locations tied to the life of Saint Augustine, the renowned fifth-century North African saint.

Leo XIV, who was elected in May and is a member of the Augustinian order founded in the 13th century, oversees nearly 3,000 members in about 50 countries worldwide. He noted that visiting Algeria would help further dialogue and understanding between Christian and Muslim communities.

"Saint Augustine serves as a significant figure of connection, as he is deeply respected in Algeria as one of their notable historical figures," the 70-year-old pontiff explained.

According to a Vatican source, the African itinerary could also include stops in Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea. In addition, Leo XIV expressed a strong interest in traveling to Latin America, including Argentina, Uruguay, and Peru, where he spent over two decades as a missionary.

Author: Maya Henderson