Pope Leo XIV, the first American pope, condemned the use of religion to justify wars and called for a change in Cameroon. He emphasized the need for peace and unity in the context of the Anglophone conflict.

Pope Leo XIV, during a meeting in Bamenda, Cameroon, condemned leaders who use religious language to justify wars, calling for a "decisive change of course" in the face of the anglophone conflict that has lasted nearly a decade. He emphasized that billions of dollars are spent on destruction, while resources for healing and education are lacking. Criticizing the exploitation of religion for personal gain, the pope stated that it is a "world turned upside down." He also addressed corruption in Cameroon and called for its eradication. During the visit, he listened to testimonies about violence in the area, including abductions. A separatist alliance declared a three-day ceasefire to allow the free movement of civilians. The pope expressed hope that religious leaders can mediate peace, encouraging unity in the face of the country's cultural and ethnic diversity.