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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Justin Kabumba,Deng Machol and Cara Anna

‘He’s close to us’: Wheelchair users in Africa await pope

Copyright 2021 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

When Pope Francis arrives in Congo and South Sudan next week, thousands of people will take special note of a gesture more grounded than the sign of the cross. Watching from their wheelchairs, they will relate to the way he uses his.

The pope, who began using a wheelchair last year, is visiting two countries where years of conflict have disabled many, and yet they are among the world’s most difficult places to find accessibility and understanding. His visit is heartening Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

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