Next Africa

A Clash With Trump Adds Drama to a Papal Visit

Pope Leo XIV begins Africa trip in Muslim-majority Algeria.

Pope Leo XIV visits the Great Mosque of Algiers on April 13.Photographer: Alberto Pizzoli/AFP/Getty Images

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Salah Slimani and Michael Gunn

April 14, 2026 at 1:00 PM UTC

Welcome to Next Africa, a daily newsletter on where the continent stands now — and where it’s headed. Sign up here to have it delivered to your email. In today’s edition, we look at Pope Leo’s first visit to Africa. And:

Pope Leo XIV’s first official trip to Africa was shaping up to be a customary affair. That was before Donald Trump weighed in.