FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11 March 2025

Ottawa, ON – The ONE Campaign welcomes the release of the Canada-Africa Strategy, which finally provides a framework for Canada’s engagement with the African continent. Africa is the fastest-growing region in the world across trade, diplomacy, and development. Before this, Canada had no cohesive vision for its relationship with Africa, so this acknowledgment of the continent as a diplomatic and trading partner—not just a recipient of aid—is a necessary and long overdue step.

Elise Legault, Canada Director at The ONE Campaign issued the following statement:

“Calling this a ‘Strategy’ is generous. Rather than presenting a bold new direction, this document largely recaps what the government has done, without specifying a clear vision for the future. It lacks new financial commitments, measurable goals, or a clear implementation plan. By contrast, Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy received $2.3 billion in investments. There is no justifiable reason why Africa’s 54 countries and nearly 1.4 billion people would receive no new investments.

“This Strategy might be a starting point, but it falls short of what is needed for a true Canada-Africa partnership. With a new Prime Minister in place and a federal election looming, Canada must move beyond words and deliver action. Canadian prosperity requires global trade. Trade requires real investments if we hope to be taken seriously by new trade partners.

“Canada must add real substance to this announcement. Other countries are actively investing in African infrastructure, making state visits, and launching trade missions. If Canada fails to do the same, we will miss the opportunity to build a stronger, mutually beneficial partnership.

“The global economy is shifting, our largest trading partner is in retreat. Africa offers some of the greatest growth potential for new markets, innovations, and partnerships. We cannot afford to stay in the status quo while the world siezes this opportunity.

“This Strategy provides a basic foundation, but there is still much work ahead. ONE will continue to advocate for a more ambitious, action-oriented Canada-Africa partnership—one that moves beyond rhetoric and delivers real impact.”

Elise Legault is available for interviews.

Media Contact:
Justin M^cAuley
Associate Director, Canada (Media & Communications)
[email protected]
613-324-5333