Who are the 3 African cardinals in running to succeed Pope Francis?

CapeTalk's Lester Kiewit interviews Kiri Rupiah of The Continent.

Listen below (skip to 02:07):

The passing of Pope Francis has left the Catholic Church – and the world – wondering what comes next.

RELATED: What’s next for the Catholic Church following Francis' death?

Already, several prominent cardinals have been named as potential successors to lead the Church, including three notable African contenders: Cardinal Peter Turkson, Cardinal Robert Sarah, and Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu.

Cardinal Peter Turkson

Ghanaian Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76, has emerged as one of the frontrunners in recent months.

If elected, he would become the first African pope since Pope Gelasius I in the fifth century.

Known for his advocacy on climate change and economic justice, Turkson has also shown increasingly moderate views on LGBT+ issues.

Cardinal Robert Sarah

Cardinal Robert Sarah, 79, from Guinea, is a strong favourite among conservative Catholics.

Despite his high profile during Benedict’s papacy, Rupiah notes that Sarah has been somewhat sidelined in recent years. 

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu

At 65, Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu of the Democratic Republic of Congo is considered a 'dark horse' in the race.

However, his close advisory role to Pope Francis in the later years of his papacy has drawn attention.

Rupiah says that he’s 'one to watch'.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the interview.