Jubilant crowds hail pope 'prophet of reconciliation' at Africa tour start

Touching down in Mozambique, Francis was welcomed by a military band and a display of traditional dance. [AFP]

Pope Francis arrived in Mozambique on Wednesday as he kicked off a three-nation tour of African countries, expected to focus on those hard hit by poverty, conflict and natural disaster.

Touching down just after 6:00 pm local time (1600 GMT) Francis was greeted on the tarmac by President Filipe Nyusi, a military band playing the national anthem and a display of traditional dance.