Pope Francis: 2 African Cardinals That Could Take Over The Papacy
With the passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, the world now looks toward the College of Cardinals as they prepare to elect the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. In a historic shift, two African prelates—Cardinal Peter Turkson of Ghana and Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungo of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)—have emerged as frontrunners to wear the papal white.
If chosen, either cardinal would become the first African pope in over 1,500 years—a decision that could reshape the global Catholic Church for generations.
Cardinal Peter Turkson: Ghana’s Diplomatic Trailblazer
Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, has long been one of Africa’s most respected voices in the Catholic Church. Born in Ghana’s Cape Coast, Turkson has served in key Vatican positions, including as head of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. His global footprint includes assignments as a peace envoy to conflict zones like South Sudan, highlighting his diplomatic finesse.
Known for his intellectual depth and fluency in Fante, English, French, Italian, and German, Turkson also reads Latin and Hebrew. He’s viewed as a moderate voice, especially on divisive issues. On LGBTQ+ concerns, for example, Turkson has criticized harsh anti-gay laws in parts of Africa while stressing the importance of understanding the continent’s cultural context. His balanced approach makes him a palatable candidate for both progressive and traditionalist blocs within the Church.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo: Congo’s Courageous Shepherd
At 64, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungo of Kinshasa represents the new generation of African Catholic leadership. He shepherds one of the largest Catholic communities on the continent, with over 7 million followers. A Capuchin friar and seasoned theologian, Ambongo is known for his strong moral voice and commitment to justice.
His bold criticism of corruption, human rights abuses, and environmental damage in the DRC has earned him a reputation as a fearless reformer. While theologically conservative, his pastoral heart and experience in navigating complex sociopolitical landscapes make him a serious contender.
Social Media Erupts in Support for an African Pope
News of the potential for an African pope has set social media ablaze. Hashtags like #AfricanPope, #PopeTurkson, and #PopeAmbongo have been trending across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok. Ghanaians and Congolese alike are sharing heartfelt tributes, historical reflections, and celebratory posts calling this moment “Africa’s time.” Many Catholic youth in Africa are posting videos of prayer vigils and masses held in support of the two cardinals. Global influencers, religious leaders, and ordinary believers have joined in, emphasizing the significance of inclusivity and representation in the Church’s highest office.
Why Africa’s Time Might Be Now
The Catholic Church is witnessing a major demographic shift—while numbers decline in Europe, Africa’s Catholic population is surging. With over 250 million Catholics and counting, the continent now plays a central role in shaping the Church’s future.
Turkson and Ambongo embody that future. Whether it’s Turkson’s Vatican savvy and global diplomacy or Ambongo’s grassroots activism and spiritual leadership, both cardinals represent a Church that is youthful, dynamic, and grounded in real-world challenges.
If either is chosen, it would not only mark a historic first for Africa but also signal a bold new direction for a Church navigating modern complexities.
Also Read: Pope Francis Dies at 88: A Humble Shepherd’s Legacy Ends in Vatican
