The Catholic Church has had 266 popes, but not a single one from Africa—despite the continent being home to 236 million Catholics (and growing rapidly).
For centuries, the papacy has been dominated by Europeans, with only a handful of non-European popes in history. But as the Church’s center of gravity shifts southward, the question becomes unavoidable: When will Africa get its first pope?
And if it happens soon, one name stands out: Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, OFM Cap.
A fearless leader, a voice for justice, and a man unafraid to challenge power, Ambongo embodies the kind of bold, reformist energy that could redefine the papacy. But is the Catholic Church ready for an African pope? And why does Ambongo have what it takes?
Let’s dive in.
Who Is Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu?
Born in Boto, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in 1960, Ambongo’s journey from a small village to one of the most influential cardinals in the world is nothing short of extraordinary.
A Capuchin Franciscan friar, he was ordained a priest in 1988 and quickly distinguished himself as both a scholar (teaching moral theology) and a pastor deeply engaged in social justice. His rise through the Church’s ranks has been meteoric—bishop at 44, archbishop at 56, cardinal at 59—and today, he is the Archbishop of Kinshasa, one of Africa’s most prominent dioceses.
But titles alone don’t define him. What makes Ambongo remarkable is his unflinching courage—whether standing up to dictators, condemning corruption, or challenging even the Vatican itself when he believes justice is at stake.
Why Ambongo Could Be the First African Pope
1. He’s a Fearless Advocate for Democracy and Human Rights
Ambongo is no quiet diplomat. When former Congolese President Joseph Kabila tried to cling to power by delaying elections, Ambongo publicly condemned him, organized protests, and even led a delegation of bishops to Zambia to push for free and fair elections.
His boldness came at a cost—he received death threats and has lived under constant risk. But he never backed down. In a Church that often plays it safe, Ambongo’s willingness to speak truth to power makes him a rare and compelling leader.
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2. He’s a Climate Justice Champion
Long before “Laudato Si'” made environmentalism a Vatican priority, Ambongo was pushing for renewable energy in Africa, calling solar power the future and demanding transparency in natural resource extraction.
He even brokered meetings between German and Congolese environmental ministers, proving he can bridge divides between the Global North and South—a crucial skill for a potential pope in a divided world.
3. He’s Unafraid to Challenge the Vatican (When Necessary)
In early 2024, Ambongo made headlines when he publicly rejected parts of Pope Francis’ Fiducia Supplicans, a document allowing blessings for same-sex couples.
His reasoning? “This cannot be carried out in Africa without causing scandal.”
Some saw this as defiance, but Ambongo framed it as cultural sensitivity—arguing that imposing Western norms on Africa would be a form of “neo-colonialism.”
This stance made him a lightning rod, but it also showcased his deep connection to African Catholic identity—a trait that could make him a unifying figure for the Global South.
4. He’s Already in the Pope’s Inner Circle
Pope Francis doesn’t promote just anyone to the Council of Cardinals—his closest advisory group. Ambongo’s appointment in 2020 signaled that Francis sees him as a key leader.
If the next conclave leans toward continuity with Francis’ reformist vision, Ambongo could be a top contender.
The Obstacles: Is the World Ready for an African Pope?
Despite Ambongo’s strengths, history hasn’t been kind to non-European papal candidates. The last non-European pope was Gregory III (Syria, 731 AD)—1,293 years ago.
1. Lingering Eurocentrism in the Church
The Vatican remains heavily European-dominated, with Italian cardinals historically wielding major influence. While Francis has diversified the College of Cardinals, old biases persist.
2. Political Risks
Ambongo’s activism has made him enemies. In April 2024, Congolese authorities opened an investigation against him for “seditious remarks.” If he were pope, his past confrontations with African governments could complicate Vatican diplomacy.
3. Conservative Resistance
His opposition to Fiducia Supplicans won him fans in traditionalist circles, but his broader alignment with Francis’ progressive reforms might alienate hardliners.
Final Verdict: The Case for Ambongo
The Catholic Church is at a crossroads. Declining in Europe, exploding in Africa. If it wants to stay relevant, it may need a pope who reflects its future—not just its past.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu is that man.
- He’s a bridge-builder between continents.
- He’s a fearless moral voice in a world hungry for integrity.
- He understands the Global South like no pope before him.
Will the next conclave be bold enough to make history? Only time will tell.
But one thing’s certain: The era of African leadership in the Catholic Church isn’t coming—it’s already here. And Ambongo is at the forefront.
