VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV on Sunday drew attention to what he called the “great suffering” of people in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where renewed fighting has driven thousands from their homes and pushed many to flee across the border into Burundi. Speaking during his Angelus address in St Peter’s Square, the pontiff said communities were being forced to escape violence and were now confronting “a serious humanitarian crisis,” urging that “dialogue for reconciliation and peace” prevail among parties to the conflict.
Eastern Congo has endured decades of conflict involving government forces and multiple armed groups competing for influence and control in the mineral-rich region. Recent escalations—particularly in South Kivu—have compounded displacement and strained basic services, as humanitarian agencies report worsening conditions for families who have fled violence.
Vatican News reported that the latest wave of instability has spilled into Burundi, where influxes of Congolese refugees have increased pressure on hosting communities and relief systems.
In the same address, Pope Leo also extended prayers to victims of severe flooding across South Africa, Mozambique and Zimbabwe, saying he was close to those affected by the extreme weather. Vatican News said the pontiff noted the heavy human toll and widespread destruction as torrential rains submerged communities, destroyed homes and damaged essential infrastructure.
The floods have killed more than 100 people across the three countries since heavy rains intensified late last year, according to Associated Press reporting. In South Africa, authorities have recorded at least 30 deaths, particularly in Limpopo and Mpumalanga provinces, while large areas have suffered major damage to roads, bridges, power and water systems.
On Sunday, South Africa’s National Disaster Management Center declared the flooding and severe weather a national disaster, a step that allows for coordinated relief measures and additional state support as emergency teams continue rescue and recovery operations.
The papal appeal comes as humanitarian responders across the region warn that continued rainfall and saturated ground could worsen flooding risks, heightening the urgency of evacuations and assistance for displaced families.
