Introduction
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Forging Strategic Global Partnerships: Africa on the Rise!
Dear Delegate and Strategic Partners,
Welcome to the official Canada-Africa Strategic Program 2026 platform, a pioneering multilateral initiative to boost inclusive development, trade, investment, and policy alignment between Canada and Africa. The program’s main theme is “Forging Sustainable Partnerships for a Shared Future—Unlocking a New Era of Cooperation.”
In September 2026, African stakeholders will come together in Ottawa, Canada, not just as leaders of institutions, governments, and businesses, but as creators of a new era. An era in which Africa’s and Canada’s futures are built collaboratively through bold ideas, strong partnerships, and decisive action.
Africa is at a critical crossroads, full of opportunities yet facing economic disparities, infrastructure deficiencies, and social inequalities. What we require now is strategic collaboration, not sympathy. What we pursue is co-investment, not charity. And what we insist on is active inclusion, not passive observation.
This Strategic Program functions as a call to action, offering a platform to develop local solutions through policy alignment, industrial investment, sustainable infrastructure, and people-centered growth. It creates a shared space for us to realign priorities, moving from extractive relationships to collaborative partnerships.
To be clear, Africa’s development is not solely Africa’s concern but a global opportunity. Canada, with its strong institutions, stable economy, and inclusive outlook, is more than just a partner; it is a co-creator in shaping the next chapter of Africa’s economic story.
As we participate in intergovernmental roundtables, legislative retreats, local government exchanges, FDI forums, and business matchmaking missions, let’s keep in mind that our gathering is not in Ottawa, the Canadian Government’s seat, to speculate on what might be. Instead, we will be prepared and set to create and implement what is necessary.
To our partners from Africa, Canada, and beyond, now is the time to rise. Let us build new trade routes, mitigate risks to private-sector involvement, harness blended financing, and enable our communities to create a shared, sustainable future.
I welcome everyone to this historic gathering with gratitude, purpose, and a firm belief that the time for Africa-led solutions and mutually beneficial cooperation is now.
See You in Ottawa!
Prof. Carl N. Oshodi-Isibor, Ph.D., DBA,
Group CEO, Africa Industrialization Group Inc.
Convener, Canada-Africa Strategic Program 2026