The Canadian government, led by Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly, announced the launch of a new "integrated strategy" aimed at enhancing relations with Africa in multiple areas including security, economic development, and the protection of human rights. This announcement comes after the Canadian government reversed some previous initiatives related to Africa, with plans being modified several times since the beginning, starting from a "strategy" to a "framework" and reaching a "approach" last August. However, today, Joly confirmed that Canada will adopt a comprehensive strategic plan that includes a range of developmental and security initiatives.

In a press conference in Toronto, Joly said, "We want stronger cooperation with the African Union and also stronger bilateral relations with many African countries." She pointed out that this strategy includes allocating $54.4 million for key projects aimed at promoting peace and preventing conflicts, including in Sudan where civilians will be supported and survivors of sexual violence in Darfur will be protected.

New initiatives to enhance security and development

The new strategy includes several initiatives that involve working with the United Nations through the Kingdom of Morocco to combat terrorism and criminal threats in West Africa, in addition to projects aimed at combating biological threats. The government also announced the opening of a new embassy in Benin and a High Commission in Zambia to enhance diplomatic presence on the African continent.

Regarding trade, International Trade Minister Mary Ng revealed plans to facilitate direct flights between Canada and Nigeria, the largest African country by population, in addition to talks with Ghana to organize the same facilities. She also confirmed that Canada plans to organize a trade mission to Africa later this year.

Supporting sustainable development and empowering women and youth

International Development Minister Ahmed Hussen announced the allocation of $176.6 million to support projects in Africa focused on empowering youth and women, in addition to strengthening efforts to combat climate change. He explained that Canada is working to help African countries transition from reliance on foreign aid to funding projects that contribute to strengthening the local economy and creating job opportunities.

Improving policies and reviewing challenges

Alongside these initiatives, the House of Commons Foreign Affairs Committee issued a report that includes recommendations to enhance Canada’s commitment to Africa. Among these recommendations is an increased focus on French-speaking African countries, setting public timelines and strategic goals for cooperation, as well as reviewing policies that restrict Africans' access to visas, which have faced widespread criticism due to delays in granting visas to students and professionals from African countries.

Strengthening relations with the African Union

In the same context, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, where they discussed ways to enhance cooperation between Canada and the African Union in areas of security and sustainable development.

These developments affirm Canada’s commitment to expanding its engagement on the African continent and achieving common goals with the countries of the continent in addressing security and development challenges, reflecting a shift in Canada’s policy towards Africa in the coming years.