Here is a history of papal visits to Africa, where more than 20% of the world's Catholics live. Pope Paul VI (1963 to 1978)First Papal Visit to AfricaPope Paul VI, the first pope to leave Italy in 150 years, made the first papal visit to Africa in 1969. Pope John Paul II (1978 to 2005)Extensive Travels Across AfricaPope John Paul II made 15 visits to Africa and travelled to 41 countries on the continent. Pope Benedict XVI (2005 to 2013)Visits to Cameroon and AngolaPope Benedict made two visits to Africa. Pope Francis (2013 to 2025)Visits Amid Conflict and Historic Joint MissionPope Francis made five visits to Africa.

Source: Los Angeles Times April 09, 2026 08:44 UTC