The leader of the Catholic Church in the world, Pope Leo XIV, has urged young people in Africa to stay and build their nations instead of migrating to seek a better life abroad.

Speaking to students at the Catholic University of Central Africa in Yaounde, Cameroon, during his 11-day visit to the continent, Pope Leo said, “despite the attraction of many people to migrate believing that a better life is abroad, I invite you to be eager to serve your country and use your knowledge for the benefit of your fellow citizens.”

In addition, the Pope stressed that the new generation should be committed to society and face challenges such as corruption and economic problems within their countries, adding that Africa needs wise and just young people to bring about positive change.

However, according to a report by the International Organization for Migration, 21 million Africans lived in other countries of the world as of 2020, while the number of migrants outside the African continent continues to increase, and the main reasons for migration include political conflicts, poverty, corruption and unemployment. Countries like Somalia, Nigeria and Sudan have been most affected by war, natural disasters and difficult economic conditions.