By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D (Hon.)

ALGIERS – Algeria has officially welcomed the announcement from the Vatican City State that His Holiness Pope Leo will undertake an official visit to the country at the invitation of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

Algerian authorities described the visit as a historic opportunity to reinforce the longstanding bonds of friendship, trust, and mutual understanding between the North African nation and the Holy See. “We are honored by this invitation, which reflects our commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and shared values,” a government spokesperson said.

In a statement to HICGI News Agency, Ambassador Amokrane Mourad, Algerian Ambassador to Uganda said “This visit will strengthen the bonds of friendship, trust, and understanding that unite Algeria and the Vatican. This trip will be the first papal visit to Algeria. The visit will take place in the cities of Algiers and Annaba from April 13 to 15, 2026. This visit will allow His Holiness the Pope to visit the places where Saint Augustine lived, as well as to continue the dialogue and build bridges between the Christian and Muslim worlds.”

This papal visit is expected to focus on interreligious dialogue.
He will visit the Cathedral of Notre Dame of Africa in Algiers before traveling to the Basilica of Saint Augustine in Annaba.

The papal visit is expected to focus on themes of peace, interfaith dialogue, and social cohesion. Algeria, predominantly Muslim yet historically committed to religious tolerance, has in the past collaborated with the Vatican on initiatives promoting cultural exchange, coexistence, and humanitarian cooperation. Analysts say the visit could further highlight these efforts and strengthen Algeria’s role as a bridge between Africa and Europe.

While specific dates and itinerary details have not yet been released, officials from both countries have pledged to ensure that the visit will have maximum diplomatic and symbolic impact. Observers suggest the trip could also elevate Algeria’s international profile and underscore its commitment to dialogue between faiths in a region often marked by religious and cultural tensions.

This visit marks another milestone in the Vatican’s ongoing engagement with North African nations and comes amid a global push for interreligious understanding and cooperation.