Pope Leo XIV has renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan and the establishment of humanitarian corridors to assist civilians trapped by the ongoing conflict.
Speaking on Sunday, the pontiff expressed deep sorrow over reports from al-Fashir, a city in northern Darfur recently captured by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). The United Nations has accused the RSF of killing non-Arab civilians and committing sexual assaults in the area.
“It is with great sorrow that I follow the tragic news coming from Sudan, particularly from the city of al-Fashir in the tormented northern Darfur region,” the Pope said. “Indiscriminate violence against women and children, attacks on defenceless civilians, and severe obstacles to humanitarian aid are causing unbearable suffering to a population already worn down by months of conflict.”
He urged the international community to act “with determination and generosity” to support relief operations and bring aid to affected populations.
Turning to East Africa, Pope Leo XIV also called for peace in Tanzania following post-election violence that reportedly left hundreds dead.
“I invite everyone to avoid all forms of violence and to follow the path of dialogue,” he said, urging Tanzanians to choose reconciliation over conflict.
The violence erupted after protests against the exclusion of President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s two main challengers from the ballot. The military has been deployed to assist police in quelling the unrest, while internet access across the country has been sporadic since Wednesday’s vote.
