Monsignor Julien Kaboré Appointed Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana
First Apostolic Nuncio from Burkina Faso
The Holy Father has appointed Monsignor Julien Kaboré as Apostolic Nuncio to Ghana and elevated him to the titular see of Milevi in Algeria with the dignity of archbishop. This decision was announced by the Holy See Press Office on Saturday, June 29, 2024.
Career of Monsignor Julien Kaboré
Monsignor Julien Kaboré was born in Zorgho, Burkina Faso, on June 18, 1968. He was ordained a priest on July 8, 1995, and incardinated in the metropolitan archdiocese of Koupéla. Holding a degree in canon law, he entered the diplomatic service of the Holy See on July 1, 2004.
He has served in several papal representations around the world, including Kenya, Papua New Guinea, Costa Rica, Korea, Croatia, Trinidad and Tobago, the Philippines, and Ireland. This extensive international experience attests to his ability to manage complex and varied relations, a significant asset for his new mission in Ghana.
Role of an Apostolic Nuncio
The Apostolic Nuncio is the diplomatic representative of the Holy See to governments and local Churches. According to canon law, he is tasked with “promoting and fostering relationships between the Apostolic See and the Authorities of the State” (c. 365 § 1), thus representing the Pope from a diplomatic standpoint. Acting as an ambassador, he ensures communication between the Vatican and a host government, participates in the life of local Churches, and actively contributes to the appointment of bishops. The role of nuncios is therefore to “make ever firmer and more effective the bonds of unity which exist between the apostolic see and the particular Churches” (c. 364).
Origin of Apostolic Nunciatures
The first Apostolic Nunciatures date back to the early 16th century, with posts in Vienna, Lucerne, Cologne, and Brussels. The Apostolic Nuncio enjoys precedence over all ambassadors, a privilege granted at the Congress of Vienna in 1815. This role is essential for strengthening the ties between the Holy See and particular Churches and for promoting the Vatican’s spiritual and moral values internationally.
Ghana: context and importance
Ghana, located on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa, is bordered by Côte d’Ivoire to the west, Togo to the east, and Burkina Faso to the north. This country, with a population of over 28 million (2017), is rich in raw materials, particularly minerals and oil. Its economy primarily relies on agriculture. Ghana is a world leader in cocoa production and a significant gold producer.
A Country of ethnic and religious diversity
Ghana is characterized by notable ethnic and linguistic pluralism with more than 110 ethnic groups. According to 2010 figures, the majority of the population is Christian (71.2%), followed by Muslims (17.6%) and adherents of traditional African religions (5.2%). The Catholic Church represents about 13% of the Christian population.
Reactions and reception in Ghana
Since the announcement of his appointment, Monsignor Kaboré has received a warm welcome from the Ghanaian episcopate. The Ghana Catholic Bishops’ Conference expressed its enthusiasm and congratulations, welcoming Monsignor Kaboré in a message broadcast on Facebook.
Monsignor Kaboré’s experience could be a valuable asset in fulfilling his mission in this dynamic and diverse country, promising fruitful collaboration between the Holy See and Ghana.
Good mission to Bishop Julien Kaboré