Massive crowds estimated at 200,000 people assembled Sunday in Kilamba, near Angola’s capital city of Luanda, to participate in Mass celebrated by Pope Leo during what officials describe as a centerpiece event of his African tour.
The Vatican projected that roughly 200,000 attendees would fill the Kilamba district, an extensive urban development outside the capital, to listen to remarks from the pontiff, who has gained attention for his bold statements regarding conflict and social inequality, drawing criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Many Angolans began arriving in the early morning hours despite sweltering, muggy weather to secure their opportunity to witness the pope firsthand.
“The pope coming here is a joy,” said Sister Christina Matende, who arrived around 6 a.m. (0500 GMT). “We are living in a moment of a lot of difficulties and we are waiting for the blessing of the pope.”
While Angola ranks among sub-Saharan Africa’s top oil producers, its 36.6 million residents continue facing severe poverty, with over 30% surviving on less than $2.15 daily, based on World Bank data.
Catholic believers comprise more than half the nation’s population.
During his African journey, Pope Leo, America’s first pontiff, made Angola his third stop on a four-country visit. Speaking to the nation’s political leadership Saturday, he condemned the exploitation of the continent’s natural wealth.
The pope criticized “despots and tyrants” whom he accused of promising prosperity while failing to fulfill commitments, resulting in hardship and loss of life.
He additionally called on government officials to prioritize serving all citizens rather than focusing solely on business interests.
“History will then vindicate you, even if in the near term some may oppose you,” he said.
Anielka Caliata, 25, waiting among the Sunday crowd in Kilamba, expressed appreciation for the pope’s bold messaging throughout his African tour.
“Our country needs a lot of this message and I think the pope will help us to think and reflect about that, knowing that all of us need to work together and do our best to have peace,” she said, as she stood with her fiancé and parents.
