The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, accompanied by Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages and Member of Parliament for Edmonton Centre, announced today $35 million in new funding to support gender equality and women’s empowerment initiatives on the African continent.

“Canada stands firm in support of gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls in Africa. By working closely with our partners, we are committed to building a better future where women have equal opportunities to lead, contribute, and thrive across all sectors. Together, we can unlock the full potential of communities in Africa, foster sustainable development, and strengthen resilience in the face of global challenges.”

- Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development

“Achieving global gender equality takes everyone. Today’s $35 million investment in International Assistance Projects in Africa is how Canada is helping empower women to take up more leadership positions, receive the services they deserve and assume their seat at the decision-making table in communities across Africa and beyond.”

- Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages and Member or Parliament for Edmonton Centre

• On November 7, 2024, Canada announced a series of flagship initiatives that will strengthen partnerships at all levels, multilaterally and regionally, on the African continent, including through bilateral initiatives.

• Canada’s African Diaspora is made up of 1.3 million people – and growing.

• Canada’s international assistance to Somalia is totalling $78 million in 2022-23. Canada launched a dedicated bilateral development assistance program for Somalia in 2018, which currently focuses on Somalia’s education and health sectors, building inclusive governance systems, promoting and protecting human rights and addressing harmful gender norms and practices.

• Canada’s international assistance to South Africa grew to $89M in 2022-23 with increased funding for climate action and to support South Africa’s Just Energy Transition from coal towards cleaner energy sources.

• Canada has contributed a total of $205.8M in programming in Malawi, primarily through initiatives focused on sexual and reproductive health, and maternal, newborn and child health and agriculture.

Related products

• Backgrounder: Minister Hussen announces more than $35 million for international assistance projects in Africa

Associated links

• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat
• Canada reinforces partnerships with African countries and institutions to strengthen diplomatic relations, collaboration, economic development and stronger ties, in Canada and on the global stage
• Ministers Joly, Ng and Hussen to attend the Canada-African Union Commission High-Level Dialogue

Olivia Batten
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of International Development
Olivia.Batten@international.gc.ca

Media Relations Office
Global Affairs Canada
media@international.gc.ca
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