By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
Canada’s Liberal government is reasserting its commitment to an Africa strategy, a plan that had seemingly faded last year. This renewed focus includes opening new embassies and enhancing security cooperation across the continent.
Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly, accompanied by Trade Minister Mary Ng and International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen, announced Canada’s intentions following discussions with African Union officials. “We’re developing a new Africa strategy involving stronger ties with the African Union and bilateral relations with individual countries,” said Joly, noting that these new initiatives mark the first steps in the updated strategy.
Ottawa has allocated $54.4 million for three core projects. The first is aimed at peacebuilding and conflict prevention in Sudan, with efforts to protect civilians in Darfur and support survivors of sexual violence. The second initiative involves partnering with the UN in Morocco to counter terrorism and organized crime in West Africa, while the third will focus on combatting biological threats.
Additionally, Canada plans to open an embassy in Benin and a high commission in Zambia, appointing a special envoy for Africa as a whole and another for the Sahel region. Trade Minister Mary Ng highlighted upcoming direct flights between Canada and Nigeria, with similar talks underway with Ghana, as part of efforts to strengthen trade relations. She also shared plans for a future trade mission to Africa.
International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen announced $176.6 million in projects focused on youth and women’s empowerment, as well as climate action across the continent. He explained that Ottawa aims to support developing countries in transitioning from foreign aid dependency to business development and self-sufficiency.
While the “Africa strategy” has seen several revisions, with labels such as “framework” and “approach,” Joly reaffirmed Ottawa’s commitment to establishing a comprehensive plan for Canada’s engagement with Africa.
Canada’s House of Commons foreign affairs committee has also endorsed this push, recommending actions like a stronger focus on French-speaking African nations, a timeline of strategic goals, and revisiting visa policies that have frequently limited African officials and students from accessing Canada.
In further support of these initiatives, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chair of the African Union Commission, to discuss deepening Canada’s involvement with African nations.
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