The Catholic world is in mourning following the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025. At 88, he passed away due to complications from double pneumonia, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, reform, and a renewed focus on social justice and the environment.
With his passing, attention now turns to the future of the Church. Who will succeed him as the next pope? Among the names being discussed, two African cardinals are emerging as prominent contenders, highlighting the growing influence of the African Church on the global Catholic stage.
Cardinal Peter Turkson – Ghana
Cardinal Turkson, 76, has long been seen as a strong papal candidate. A respected biblical scholar fluent in multiple languages, he became a cardinal in 2003. His role in drafting Laudato Si’, Pope Francis’ landmark encyclical on environmental stewardship, earned him international recognition. Cardinal Turkson has consistently emphasized the need for moral responsibility in economic and environmental matters.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu – Democratic Republic of the Congo
At 64, Cardinal Ambongo is the Archbishop of Kinshasa and a vocal advocate for peace, justice, and sustainability. His leadership in the heart of Africa’s Catholic stronghold has made him a symbol of hope for a Church increasingly attuned to the challenges faced by the Global South. His firm stance on social justice and human rights resonates deeply across continents.
A New Era for the Catholic Church?
The prospect of an African pope has never felt more real. The upcoming conclave may not just be a change in leadership—it could mark a historic shift in the Church’s center of gravity toward a region full of youthful energy, deep faith, and dynamic growth.
As the College of Cardinals prepares to elect the next leader of the world’s 1.3 billion Catholics, all eyes are on Rome—and on Africa.