Canada risks missing economic boom by leaving Africa envoy position vacant: senator
The federal government is considering whether to continue Canada’s special envoy to Africa position, despite calls from House of Commons and Senate committees for stronger support and resources to deepen economic ties with the rapidly growing continent. Senator Amina Gerba warned that Canada risks missing major trade and investment opportunities in Africa, arguing that other global powers are already expanding their presence while Ottawa has yet to fully implement its Africa Strategy. The uncertainty surrounding the envoy role has raised concerns among lawmakers and business advocates, who say Canada needs a clearer, better-funded approach to strengthen its economic engagement with Africa as the continent’s population and markets continue to expand.