Pope Leo XIV has called for increased international support to help the Democratic Republic of Congo contain its worsening Ebola outbreak.
Speaking after his Sunday Angelus prayer at St Peter’s Square, the Pope urged the international community to work closely with local communities to protect lives and strengthen efforts to control the disease.
The outbreak has affected areas where healthcare facilities and government services remain limited, while years of insecurity have further complicated the response.
Leo expressed concern over the growing number of victims and encouraged countries and humanitarian organisations to provide more assistance to communities affected by the virus.
The Pope also extended his condolences to people in the Central African Republic following a deadly mining accident in Zamboye.
A collapse at a gold mine near the Cameroonian border reportedly killed dozens of people, with others still feared trapped under the rubble.
He prayed for those who lost their lives and called for improved safety measures and greater oversight of mining operations.
Leo also remembered victims of the earthquake that struck central Italy 10 years ago, offering prayers for the dead, their families and communities still affected by the disaster.
