Photo : Al Jazeera/AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Al Jazeera/AFP
CAMEROON
Pope Leo urges anti-corruption action during Cameroon visit
On 16 April, Africa News reported that Pope Leo XIV called on leaders in Cameroon to tackle corruption, urging authorities to restore credibility by breaking “the chains of corruption” during a visit to Yaoundé. Addressing President Paul Biya, the pope’s remarks come amid longstanding governance concerns and a separatist conflict in anglophone regions. The visit, the first papal trip to Cameroon since 2009, also included engagements with local communities and humanitarian institutions. Leo is expected to attend a peace meeting in Bamenda, where violence has killed thousands, and later lead a major Mass in Douala. The visit highlights the Catholic Church’s influence in Cameroon and its role in promoting dialogue, accountability, and reconciliation. (“Pope Leo XIV visits Cameroon as Biya faces unrest and separatist war,” Africa News, 16 April 2026)
SOUTH AFRICA
Ramaphosa appoints apartheid-era negotiator as US ambassador
On 16 April, BBC reported that Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed Roelf Meyer as ambassador to the United States, aiming to stabilise strained bilateral relations. Meyer, a key negotiator in ending apartheid alongside Nelson Mandela, replaces a vacancy created after the expulsion of the previous envoy. His appointment comes amid tensions linked to remarks by Donald Trump and disputes over claims of persecution in South Africa. While some analysts view Meyer’s experience as an asset in navigating complex diplomacy, critics - including opposition groups and Afrikaner organisations - have questioned both his political alignment and age. Ramaphosa defended the decision, describing Meyer as well-suited to represent South Africa during a challenging period in US relations. (“South Africa names apartheid-era politician as new ambassador to the US,” BBC, 16 April 2026)