The Holy Father will travel to Kenya, Uganda and the Central African Republic (CAR) during his five-day trip which starts on Wednesday.
According to The Japan Time News, the pontiff is expected to ask for peace, social justice and good relations between Christians and Muslims.
The 78-year-old will make 19 speeches and meet with HIV sufferers as well as victims of war and extreme poverty.
The Pope will have extra security following the Mali terror attacks on Friday.
It is thought that at the start of the Jubilee Year of Mercy next month, devoted to forgiveness and reconciliation, the Pope will open a 'Holy Door' in CAR's main cathedral in the capital Bangui.
Giulio Albanese, an expert on the continent for Vatican Radio, told AFP: "If he opens the Holy Door in Bangui, a Jubilee Year will begin for the first time ever in the periphery," rather than at the Vatican.
He added: "It would be the best summary of the pope's doctrinal attitude," of a Church that focuses on the poor.
However Vatican police have warned that the schedule could change because of inter-religious fighting in CAR and that the visit could be cut short. It is thought that the Pope will be under the watch of UN peacekeepers in the country.
If this is cancelled a prayer at a mosque and a visit to a refugee camp will not go ahead.
Francis will also visit Kenya and Uganda's Catholic populations where he is widely expected to speak on corruption and inequality.
The message from LGBT Africans is a plea for tolerance, asking the Pope to bring a message of peace even if he will not give his blessing to gay relationships.
Homosexuality is outlawed in the majority of Africa's 54 states and South Africa is the only country that allows LGBT marriage. Gay people are frequently attacked and often leave Africa because of persecution.
Pope Francis has previously said the Church must be more welcoming and loving towards gay people, however he has not supported a change in church doctrine regarding gay relationships.
