"We express our strongest condemnation at this disquieting wave of violence and assure our bruised brethren of solidarity, prayerful communion and compassion."

The presence of militant Islamist groups in the Congo such as ISIS is complicating the work of medical personnel in combating the Ebola virus epidemic, which has been rampant for the last 40 months.

The Catholic bishops of Kenya, Uganda and Ethiopia are concerned about the increasing violence among herders, who are using sophisticated weapons such as AK-47s to protect their cattle against raids.

A South African archbishop has urged the government to act against xenophobic attacks, which have increased as general elections approach.

Accompaniment, not technology, might be the most caring thing we can offer those facing death.

Several Catholic bishops appealed to the Nigerian government to expedite actions that will lead to the release of Leah Sharibu and other girls held captive by Boko Haram insurgents.