President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea has described Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Visit to the Central African nation as a historic moment that reaffirms the country’s identity as a “stronghold for Christianity” in the region.
In his address during the Holy Father’s meeting with authorities, civil society, and the diplomatic corps at the presidential palace on day one of the April 21-23 Apostolic visit, President Obiang expressed national pride and spiritual joy at hosting the Pontiff on his first Apostolic journey to the country.
“It is a special privilege for our people to receive His Holiness Leo XIV, to whom we extend a warm welcome to these African lands of Equatorial Guinea. We are filled with deep joy and feel honored to host His Holiness today,” the President said on Tuesday, April 21.
He added, “It is our wish, and that of all the people of Equatorial Guinea, that His Holiness the Pope and the distinguished delegation accompanying him enjoy our traditional Equatoguinean hospitality during your stay here and that you feel at home.”
“The presence of our shepherd, as the visible head of the Catholic Church before his flock, can only bring joy, indulgence, and peace, further strengthening our faith in Christ,” President Obiang stated.
He continued, “This visit represents for us, the people of Equatorial Guinea, a recognition of our faith and Christian devotion as a flock of Christ, at a time when political and economic crises, uncertainty, and instability cross national borders in a globalized world.”
President Obiang, who has been at the helm of the Central African nation since October 1982, emphasized that the papal presence symbolized recognition of the country’s long Christian tradition, noting that Equatorial Guinea has journeyed in the faith for more than 170 years with a Catholic population of over 90 percent.
“For this reason, the visit of His Holiness to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea…represents a stronghold for Christianity in Central Africa,” he stated.
Recalling the historic 1982 pastoral visit of Pope John Paul II, the President said the presence of Pope Leo XIV marks a continuation of a spiritual legacy that continues to shape the nation’s Catholic identity.
