by the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians in Equatorial Guinea
Malabo – Beyond the usual general information about the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, it is important to highlight that the country presents itself to the world as a vibrant land where nature and culture coexist and constantly interact. In its dense rainforests, green is not just a color, but a manifestation of life that grows, transforms, and renews itself ceaselessly. Every tree, every river, and every sea breeze seems to whisper ancient stories that still resonate in the present. The vitality of this nation is not limited to its geography. It also beats in its people, in the diversity of its communities, and in the richness of its traditions. The dances, songs, and languages passed down from generation to generation are proof of an identity that has not remained static, but has adapted without losing its essence. Here, continuity is not static; it is movement, it is memory in action. Likewise, the sea that surrounds its coasts is not a border, but a bridge. It connects, nurtures, and shapes a profound relationship between human beings and their environment. Life in this Central African country is based on the balance between nature and humanity, between tradition and modernity. A vibrant land, woven together with faces, stories, and hopes, Equatorial Guinea is not just a geographical space, but a place where life is intensely expressed in the diversity of its cultures, the richness of its traditions, and the strength of its people. This means that the general culture of Equatorial Guineans sustains life through a deep connection with humanity, with a strong sense of preserving ancestral values such as solidarity, family, and respect for elders—values reinforced by each individual’s identity and their role in the community. Women play an essential role in society, transmitting life, values, and faith. Young people represent a constantly evolving creative force, capable of integrating tradition with new forms of expression. This coexistence of the old and the new is not a source of tension, but rather a source of richness, where knowledge is passed down from generation to generation, not only through words, but also through gestures, rites, traditional ceremonies, and shared life.
In this context, for the people of Equatorial Guinea, the Holy Father’s visit is not just a “visit.” It is not simply an event, but a sign of communion and recognition. The preparations mobilize the entire nation, generating enthusiasm, collective joy, institutional mobilization, and unity within the Christian community. The popular welcome, the spiritual expectation, and the hope for religious renewal stand out, given the current crisis of faith the decline in religious practice among young people and widespread syncretism. However, it is important to emphasize that the Holy Father’s visit is considered a State-Church visit and, as such, is organized throughout the country by the Government, the Church, and Civil Society. A public appeal has been launched to participate in the events, the entire national press has been mobilized for coverage, and garments created for the occasion have been distributed to the most disadvantaged communities, given that this is one of the most important events in the country in the last forty years.
The last time the Bishop of Rome visited the nation was 44 years ago. The cathedrals and stadiums of Malabo and Bata, the prisons, the monument to the fallen on March 7, the Basilica of Mongomo, the Leon IV National University, among others, become symbols of change, of new beginnings, and above all, of living faith. The anticipation of this important occasion is experienced as a time of inner preparation. In our cities and communities, from Malabo to Bata, a sincere desire for spiritual renewal, for listening, and for communion has awakened. These are not just geographical spaces, but true sources of renewal. Wherever the Pope is present, faith is rekindled, commitment is strengthened, and the Christian identity of the people of Equatorial Guinea is renewed. These places will be marked by a living memory that inspires us to look to the future with confidence, encouraging us to build a more just, more humane, and more compassionate society. In reality, it is not just about seeing the Pope, but about embracing the message he brings, allowing ourselves to be challenged by his presence, and opening new paths in our personal, ecclesial, and social lives.
Leo IV’s visit to the National University underscores the importance that the people of Equatorial Guinea place on education as a pillar for forming critical and responsible individuals, capable of contributing to the country’s development. It is the foundation for overcoming poverty, strengthening institutions, and opening opportunities for new generations.
It is also a privileged opportunity to recognize and value the richness of Equatorial Guinea’s cultures: their languages, traditions, and profound sense of community and life. Among the Fang, Bubi, Ndowé, Annobonese, Bisio, Balengue, and other peoples, one finds deeply evangelical values: hospitality, solidarity, respect for life, and openness to God. The people of Equatorial Guinea firmly believe that culture is not an obstacle, but a privileged path to encountering the Gospel. It is a treasure that belongs not only to Africa, but enriches the entire universal Church. Religion, especially the Catholic tradition consolidated after the visit of John Paul II, contributes values such as solidarity, respect, justice, and peaceful coexistence. Education and religion are not opposed, but complementary: one shapes the mind and the other guides the heart, and culture is conceived as the true path to integral human development. Therefore, rather than bringing something entirely new, the Pope’s visit comes to confirm, sustain, and encourage what is already growing in our communities, in families, among young people, in parishes, and in schools: the seeds of goodness that the Spirit has already sown. The Holy Father’s presence strengthens them, makes them visible, and encourages us not to lose heart. It is an invitation to commit ourselves with greater courage to building the common good in Equatorial Guinea.
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