IN the wake of Pope Francis’ death, several African cardinals have emerged as potential successors, raising the possibility of the first African pontiff in modern history. As the College of Cardinals prepares for the upcoming conclave, analysts point to shifting demographics in the Catholic Church and growing recognition of Africa’s dynamic Catholic communities.
Catholic observers note that with more than 236 million Catholics in Africa – a number that has grown by over 200% since 1980 – the continent represents one of the Church’s most vibrant and fastest-growing regions. This demographic shift appears to be reflected in the current slate of papabili, or papal candidates.
The following African cardinals are considered strong contenders to lead the Church:
Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, currently serves as Chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences. Previously, he headed the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development and has been a vocal advocate for climate action and economic justice.
Turkson is widely respected for his intellectual depth and diplomatic skills. Fluent in English, Italian, German, French, and several African languages, he has represented the Vatican in numerous international forums. His expertise in Biblical theology and experience in curial leadership position him as a bridge between traditional Church teachings and contemporary global challenges.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea)
Cardinal Robert Sarah, 79, previously led the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments. Known for his theological conservatism, Sarah has authored several influential books on liturgy and Church tradition.
Despite his age, Sarah’s defenders point to his unwavering commitment to Church doctrine and his reputation for personal holiness. His outspoken positions on maintaining liturgical traditions have earned him support among traditionalist Catholics, while his personal narrative—rising from humble beginnings in rural Guinea to Vatican leadership—resonates with many faithful.
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of Congo)
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 64, leads one of Africa’s largest archdioceses in Kinshasa. A Capuchin Franciscan with training in moral theology, Ambongo has been outspoken on issues of political corruption, environmental exploitation, and human rights abuses in central Africa.
His relative youth and pastoral experience in challenging environments make him an attractive candidate who could continue Pope Francis’ emphasis on the “peripheries” of the Church. Ambongo’s advocacy for the poor and marginalised, coupled with his firm stance on traditional Catholic moral teaching, positions him as a potential consensus candidate.
Cardinal Cristóbal López Romero (Morocco)
Though Spanish-born, Cardinal López Romero, 72, has spent much of his ministry in northern Africa and currently serves as Archbishop of Rabat. His experience leading the Church in a predominantly Muslim country has given him unique insights into interreligious dialogue.
Supporters highlight his commitment to Christian-Muslim relations and his experience with migration issues affecting both Africa and Europe. His background bridges European and African perspectives, potentially making him a transitional figure for a Church increasingly centred in the Global South.
Historical Context
The possibility of an African pope would represent a historic shift in Church leadership, which has been predominantly European throughout its history. The last non-European pope before Francis was Syrian-born Gregory III in the 8th century. The only previous popes from Africa were from the northern Roman provinces in the early centuries of Christianity, with Victor I (189-199 AD) often cited as the first African pope.
Church historians note that an African pontiff would acknowledge the demographic reality of today’s Catholic Church while potentially reinvigorating Catholic traditions with perspectives from regions where faith practice remains strong amid secularising trends elsewhere.
As cardinals prepare to enter the Sistine Chapel for the conclave, many Catholics worldwide are watching with anticipation to see if the Church is ready to elect its first modern African pope, continuing the global diversification of leadership begun under Pope Francis.
