Pope León XIV, following in the footsteps of his predecessor Francis, has selected four African nations – Algeria, Angola, Cameroon, and Equatorial Guinea – for his first major international journey scheduled from April 13 to 23. This pilgrimage highlights León XIV's initiative to engage with regions often overlooked by previous papacies, marking a return to Africa where the last papal visit was over three years ago. The planned itinerary not only emphasizes León XIV's commitment to addressing pressing issues on the continent but also symbolizes a personal approach to papal diplomacy, distinct from that of Francis.

The choice of countries for this journey is significant given that none have been included in previous papal tours by Francis. León XIV's decision reflects a deeper intent to connect with different cultures and communities within Africa, aiming to bring a message of hope and solidarity. The trip is structured to resemble that of John Paul II's in 1985 when he visited seven nations over eleven days, indicating a similar ambition to cover much ground in a short period.

León XIV has expressed particular interest in visiting Algeria, notably the birthplace of Saint Augustine, which will also include stops in key historical sites such as Annaba. As the pontiff prepares for this multifaceted visit, the implications for interfaith dialogue, humanitarian aid efforts, and the addressing of local challenges in these countries underline the broader mission of the Catholic Church in Africa, enhancing its presence and influence across the continent.