Pope Francis visited the African Republics of Mozambique, Madagascar, and Mauritius between Sept. 4 and Sept. 10.

Pope Francis' week-long trip to Africa commenced with huge crowds, dancing, and honors as he landed in Mozambique as evening descended upon Maputo, the country's capital.

When Pope Francis arrives in Mozambique on Sept. 4 he is going to a country that he already knows much about from his time as archbishop of Buenos Aires, the Rev. Juan Gabriel Arias, 50, told America on the eve of the papal visit.

Pope Francis returns to sub-Saharan Africa for the second time on Sept. 4 to Sept. 10 to visit the Republics of Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius.

Pope Francis will visit Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius in his September trip, writes Vatican correspondent Gerard O'Connell, all former colonies facing development challenges.

“The situation is too fragile; the future is very unclear. This is a country of coups, and anything can happen here,” said Bishop Andali.