Pope condemns exploitation of Africa ahead of trip to the continent

(Patria) - Pope Francis has condemned the exploitation of Africa and its people ahead of his planned trip to the continent, agencies reported.

"The idea that Africa exists to be exploited is the greatest injustice," Pope Francis said, adding in an interview with the Spanish magazine Mundo Negro that "it is in the collective subconscious of many people and it must change.".

He said that Africa is not only rich in natural resources but also possesses "spiritual wealth.".

Numerous world powers are focused on plunder in Africa, "but they do not see the intelligence, the greatness, the art of the people," said Pope Francis.

Pope Francis plans to visit Congo and South Sudan from January 31 to February 5 this year.