The passing of Pope Francis has ignited a significant conversation within the Catholic Church, particularly in Africa. A continent where religion is deeply woven into the fabric of daily life, Africa is witnessing an unprecedented surge in Catholic followers. Amidst the mourning, a powerful sentiment has emerged: the hope for a Black pope, a figure who could build upon Francis's legacy of championing the developing world. This aspiration, while perhaps facing slim odds, underscores Africa's growing prominence within the global Catholic community.
According to Vatican figures released last month, Africa is the fastest-growing region for the Roman Catholic Church. This burgeoning faith is evident in the fervent attendance at services honoring Francis, where African Catholics have voiced their belief that a Black pope is long overdue.
"To have a Black pope would revive the Christian faith in Africa and change people's views of Africa, by showing that an African can hold this office," articulated Charles Yapi, a Catholic priest in Ivory Coast's bustling commercial capital, Abidjan. This sentiment encapsulates the hope that a Black pope would not only inspire African Catholics but also reshape global perceptions of the continent.
While historical records suggest that some early popes from the first millennium were of North African or African descent, conclusive details remain elusive. The possibility of a Black pope, therefore, carries both historical resonance and contemporary significance.
However, Vatican insiders express skepticism about the realistic chances of an African cardinal ascending to the papacy. They cite the lack of extensive public scrutiny faced by African cardinals compared to their Western counterparts, a potential concern for an institution grappling with recent scandals. Moreover, the unpredictable nature of papal elections adds another layer of complexity.
Despite these challenges, several African cardinals have emerged as potential candidates. These include Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, 76, Democratic Republic of Congo's Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65, and Ivory Coast's Cardinal Ignace Bessi Dogbo, 63.
Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie in Accra believes that choosing Turkson would be a fitting recognition of Africa's growing Catholic population and would inspire African prelates. "Although it's something I cannot bet on, as the cardinals who will make the selection will be led by the Holy Spirit, it will be good to have him as the next pope as this will motivate all bishops on the continent," Kwofie told Reuters.
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Some clerics, however, emphasize that a pope's values are more important than their race or nationality. "We pray that the Holy Spirit will give the Church a good pastor, one who will guide the Church towards the true God," said Congolese priest Josue-Misael Mobatila Kwilu. "Having a pope from Africa or another continent is not up to us."
The elevation of an African cardinal would be widely interpreted as a continuation of Francis's advocacy for the poor, oppressed, migrants, and war-torn civilians. Congo's President Felix Tshisekedi, for instance, recalled Francis's powerful words during a 2023 visit, urging the world to "take your hands off the Democratic Republic of Congo. Take your hands off Africa!"
However, an African pope might not necessarily embrace Francis's more socially progressive stances, such as the blessing of same-sex couples, which has stirred controversy among Africa's conservative faithful. "An African pope would be clear that same-sex relationships are 'not part of our culture' and 'would not allow himself to be influenced to accept it'," said Ivorian priest Yapi. This issue could pose a challenge, as many cardinals electing the next pope may be wary of choosing someone whose views diverge significantly from Francis's.
Turkson, who has been discussed as a possible pope for over a decade, brings a wealth of experience, combining his pastoral background in Ghana with leadership roles in Vatican offices focused on social justice and human rights. He also shares Francis's concerns about climate change and inequality.
Ambongo, a prominent advocate for peace in Congo, was appointed a cardinal by Francis in 2019 and serves on the Council of Cardinals. However, he opposed Francis's 2023 approval of blessings for gay couples. Dogbo, the archbishop of Abidjan, was made a cardinal in December 2024, increasing his visibility on the global stage. "Having cardinals from every part of the world truly translates the universality of the Church," he told Reuters.
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As the Catholic Church navigates this pivotal moment, the aspirations of African Catholics for a Black pope reflect the continent's growing influence and the desire to see a leader who understands and champions the challenges faced by the developing world. While the outcome of the papal election remains uncertain, the conversation itself highlights the evolving dynamics within the Church and the enduring legacy of Pope Francis.
