The first-ever Canada-African Union Commission (AUC) the High-level Development Policy Dialogue marked a major milestone in the AU-Canada development partnership. Co-chaired by H.E. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, AUC Deputy Chairperson, and the Hon. Ahmed Hussen, Canada's Minister of International Development.

Demonstrating this strong support, Canada doubled its grant to the AUC, providing an additional $20 million. This substantial increase empowers the African Union to pursue its goals and drive progress across the continent, focusing on a strengthened partnership between Canada and the AU paving the way for a more prosperous and secure future for Africa.

In welcoming the delegation, H.E. Monique Nsanzabaganwa, AUC Deputy Chairperson, said, "The partnership between the African Union and Canada signifies a remarkable step forward in our collective efforts to achieve Agenda 2063, and the additional support from Canada will undoubtedly accelerate our progress towards realizing this dream."

The Deputy Chairperson was accompanied by the following Commissioners who shared briefings on their respective departments, highlighting areas of collaboration: H.E. Josefa Sacko, Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (ARBE); H.E. Albert Muchanga, Commissioner for Economic Development, Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Mining (ETTIM); H.E. Professor Mohammed Belhocine, Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation; and H.E. Amb. Minata Samate Cessouma, Commissioner for Health, Humanitarian Affairs, and Social Development.

“Canada is deeply committed to supporting Africa's development journey. By doubling our grant to the African Union, we are not only reinforcing our partnership but also investing in the future of the continent,” said Hon. Ahmed Hussen, Canada's Minister of International Development. “The additional $20 million, allocated over five years, empowers the African Union to pursue its goals and drive progress across the continent

This increase includes $7.5 million unearmarked through the Joint Financing Arrangement (JFA), $2.5 million for Peace and Security Programs (PAPs) also through the JFA, and $10 million dedicated to Education and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) delivered through AUC's Education, Science, and Technology Department (ESTI), Together, we will work towards a more equitable, prosperous, and sustainable future for all Africans," announced the Canadian Minister.

This policy dialogue followed the state visit of AUC Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat to Ottawa, where he met with Prime Minister Trudeau on October 26, 2022. During their meeting, the two leaders discussed building on the collaborative partnership between Canada and the African Union and advancing shared priorities, which include protecting democracy, advancing gender equality and women’s empowerment, and addressing challenges of shared concern such as food security and climate change.

For more information
Teddy Kabunda – Senior Policy Officer, Partnerships Management and Resource Mobilization: kabundat@africa-union.org

Media contact: Janet Faith Adhiambo Ochieng | Communication Officer- Agenda 2063 | Information and Communication. Directorate | African Union Commission | E-mail: Ochiengj@Africa-union.org

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