Asger Risom
As Africa’s Catholic population surges, faithful on the continent express cautious optimism for historic representation at the Vatican
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In churches across Africa this week, prayers for the future of the Catholic Church have taken on a deeper resonance.
Following the death of Pope Francis, a growing chorus of African Catholics has voiced hope that the next pontiff might come from their own continent—possibly marking the first black pope in modern history.
Their hope is rooted in both demographic growth and a desire for recognition.
Africa is home to the fastest-growing Catholic population in the world, now accounting for roughly 20% of the global Church. According to Digi24, the continent added nine million believers last year alone.
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“Having a black pope would reinvigorate the Christian faith in Africa and change people’s vision of Africa,” said Father Charles Yapi from Ivory Coast.
Three Leading Contenders
Among the most talked-about African candidates are Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson of Ghana, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cardinal Ignace Bessi Dogbo of Ivory Coast.
Turkson, a seasoned Vatican official with experience in social justice and climate policy, has long been considered papabile—or eligible for the papacy.
Cardinal Ambongo, meanwhile, is recognized for his outspoken advocacy for peace in war-torn Congo and his close working relationship with Francis, who appointed him to his Council of Cardinals.
Dogbo, the most recent addition to the College of Cardinals, has gained visibility since his appointment in December 2024.
Still, the road to the papacy is uncertain.
None of the African candidates have undergone the intense public scrutiny often faced by their Western counterparts, and Vatican observers say this lack of exposure could work against them.
Tradition Meets Modern Realities
The prospect of an African pope carries complex political and cultural implications. Many see it as a continuation of Francis’ focus on the Global South, emphasizing social justice, migration, and environmental protection.
Yet others note that African clergy often hold more conservative views, particularly regarding same-sex unions.
Some cardinals may hesitate to vote for someone whose views could deepen divisions within the Church.
Cardinal Ambongo, for example, opposed Francis’ 2023 decision to allow blessings for same-sex couples—a move he said could scandalize the faithful.
Despite these complexities, many African Catholics remain hopeful.
“Although it is something I cannot bet on… it will be good to have [Turkson] as the future pope because this will motivate all the bishops on the continent,” said Archbishop John Bonaventure Kwofie of Accra.
A Symbolic Step Forward?
Whether or not an African cardinal is elected, many see the growing representation of African voices in the College of Cardinals as a sign of the Church’s evolving global identity.
“Having cardinals from every part of the world truly translates the universality of the Church,” Cardinal Dogbo noted in a previous interview.
As the conclave draws closer, African Catholics are watching with cautious optimism, hopeful that this time, the Holy Spirit may guide the Church toward a historic first.
