Pope Leo XIV made a poignant visit to Bamenda, Cameroon, where he condemned the 'handful of tyrants' causing war and suffering through exploitation and violence. His words aimed to highlight the ongoing Anglophone conflict rooted in colonial history, which has resulted in over 6,000 deaths and more than 600,000 displacements. The Pope emphasized the importance of interfaith efforts and the need to reject the misuse of religion to justify conflict, calling for a decisive shift toward peace and justice.

During his visit, Leo participated in a peace meeting with local religious and traditional leaders, urging political and economic changes that respect human dignity. Despite a symbolic three-day pause in hostilities announced by separatist fighters, peace negotiations remain stalled, and many residents, like Morine Ngum, remain skeptical about meaningful progress. The conflict continues to devastate communities, with families losing loved ones and livelihoods, amid widespread resource exploitation and foreign backing for separatist factions. Leo's message extends beyond Cameroon, condemning global violence spurred by manipulations of religious and political motives.