Funding Concerns and Calls for Increased Engagement

Concerns Over Funding and Implementation

Ontario MP Arielle Kayabaga, a long-time advocate for closer ties with Africa, has expressed concerns that the government's upcoming Africa strategy may lack significant funding.

The strategy, initially announced in early 2022, has been in development for over a year. Kayabaga, who has been involved in crafting the plan, fears it might not receive the financial backing it needs to be truly effective.

Her concerns stem from the government's decision to prorogue Parliament until next month. This means the strategy may not be accompanied by concrete spending commitments, unlike the $2.3 billion earmarked for the Indo-Pacific strategy launched in 2022.

Kayabaga believes Canada can learn from the Indo-Pacific strategy and avoid repeating its mistakes. She emphasizes the need for a well-funded and comprehensive approach to engagement with Africa.

While the government has indicated the strategy may be released this week, details remain unclear. Some sources suggest it may not include significant spending in the near term, relying instead on financing through Crown corporations like Export Development Canada.

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly has defended Canada's commitment to Africa, highlighting the $4 billion in aid provided over the past five years. However, African governments have been urging Western countries to shift their focus from aid to unlocking better financing terms for public and private sector investments.

This request comes amidst a continental debt crisis exacerbated by rising interest rates during the COVID-19 pandemic. South Africa's High Commissioner to Canada, Rieaz Shaik, has emphasized the need for increased diplomatic presence and investment in Africa.

He also stressed the importance of high-ranking officials leading trade missions to Africa, as is the practice in other continents. Senator Amina Gerba echoed this sentiment, highlighting the cultural expectation in Africa for meetings to be led by high-level officials.

Kayabaga urged members of the African diaspora and those with investments in Africa to engage with political leaders and contribute to campaigns. She emphasized the need for organized action and engagement to ensure the success of the Africa strategy.