Separatist groups in the English-speaking regions of Cameroon have announced a three-day ceasefire to guarantee the safety and free movement of civilians during Pope Leo XIV's visit. This decision aims to allow for "safe passage" through areas usually marked by violence.
This temporary truce is expected to take effect later this week, as the Pope continues his multi-day tour of Africa. The stated objective of the separatist groups is to facilitate the movement of people and visitors during this major international event.
Pope Leo XIV began an 11-day visit to the African continent on Monday, with planned stops in Algeria, Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea. This trip is his first major international journey since the beginning of his pontificate.
This tour aims in particular to draw attention to the challenges facing Africa, a continent home to more than a fifth of the world's Catholics. The Pope's presence is seen as a significant moment, both spiritually and politically.
In the English-speaking regions of Cameroon, plagued by armed conflict for several years, this ceasefire announcement appears as a rare gesture. It could offer a brief respite in an area regularly shaken by clashes between government forces and separatist groups.
It remains to be seen whether this temporary truce will be fully respected on the ground, in a context where violence persists despite repeated calls for peace and dialogue.
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