The history of papal visits to Africa

Pope Leo will depart on Monday for a visit to four African countries, aiming to urge world leaders to address the continent's needs. Pope Paul VI was the first to visit Africa in 1969, going to Uganda, while John Paul II made 15 visits across 41 countries. Benedict XVI visited Cameroon and Angola in 2009, where his comments on condom use sparked international controversy. Current Pope Francis continues to engage with African leaders.