Pope Leo XIV made a historic visit to Angola, urging the nation’s leaders to move away from an economic model heavily reliant on extractivism. During his visit, the Pope emphasized the urgent need for sustainable development practices that protect the environment while promoting social justice.
In his address, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the detrimental effects of extractivism—defined as the large-scale extraction of natural resources for export—which often leads to environmental degradation and long-term economic challenges. He called on Angola’s government to:
- Implement policies that diversify the economy
- Invest in renewable energy and sustainable industries
- Prioritize the welfare of local communities affected by resource extraction
This landmark visit also included meetings with religious leaders, civil society organizations, and communities impacted by mining and oil extraction. The Pope’s message further urged collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society to build an economy that benefits all Angolans equitably.
By challenging the status quo, Pope Leo XIV’s visit marks a significant moment in Angola’s path toward more responsible and inclusive economic development.
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