The passing of Pope Francis has opened a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church, as the College of Cardinals prepares to elect his successor. Near the top of the list of possibilities seriously being considered is the possibility of the next pope being from Africa—a continent which has increasingly become crucial to the Church's short- and long-term future.
In the last decades, Africa has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in world Catholicism. Whereas the Church has seen declining worship and religious vocations across most of Europe and the Americas, Africa has witnessed explosive growth. The population of Catholics in Africa has risen by leaps and bounds, with millions becoming Christians each year. Currently, nearly one in every five Catholics in the world is African—a number that continues to increase.
With this demographic shift came added influence. Several African cardinals are currently seen as the new potential choices for the papacy, all bringing their various experiences, theological insights, and leadership skills grounded in their cultures and societies.
One of the most familiar names is Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana. A vocal advocate for social justice and the environment, he has held the important positions of the Vatican and is seen as having a middle-of-the-road stance on doctrine and reform. His ability to connect Catholic dogma with everyday concerns has made him a favorite among the Church hierarchy.
Another potential candidate is Cardinal Robert Sarah of Guinea, a conservative who has served in high-ranking roles in Rome. Respected for his uncompromising adherence to traditional Catholic doctrine, Sarah is a candidate who would resonate with those in the Church who long for a return to orthodoxy and moral certainty. Though his views may be seen as inflammatory by more liberal elements, they are warmly embraced in much of the developing world.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo is also gaining attention. As the Archbishop of Kinshasa and a prominent African bishop, Ambongo has emerged through his dedication to peacebuilding, public health, and economic justice. His ability to tackle complex political and humanitarian concerns in his country has shown his leadership and pastoral sensitivity.
Despite this promising lineup, there are still hurdles to an African pope's election. African cardinals remain underrepresented in the College of Cardinals, and they represent only a tiny minority of electors. This imbalance could affect their chances, despite the increasing importance of the global south to the Church.
Besides, theological and ideological divisions in the Church can complicate matters in supporting African candidates. Large numbers of African cardinals and bishops have traditionalist attitudes toward gender roles, sexuality, and liturgical traditions. While these are congruent with Church teachings, they are not necessarily the reform vision most cardinals hope for a new pope.
There is also competition from other regions that are facing Catholic expansion, particularly Asia and Latin America. Cardinals from countries like the Philippines and Brazil are also under consideration, who belong to mixed communities that also share similar problems and growth trajectories as those found in Africa.
However, the possibility of an African pope is more likely than ever before. A pope chosen from Africa would be a momentous occasion—one of a shift in the Church's center of gravity and of a robust demonstration of its global and multicultural identity.
As the conclave begins, the world will be watching. Regardless of what the outcome is, the increasing strength of Africa in the Catholic Church cannot be ignored—and its voice, more than ever, must be heard at the helm.
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Will the Next Pope be African?
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