A new African diaspora initiative launched in Toronto is seeking to strengthen economic, professional and institutional ties between Canada and Africa, with opportunities for Ethiopian professionals and institutions to engage in its programs.
The Canada Africa Professional Network (CAPN) and the Centre for Canada-Africa Relations (CCAR) were launched on September 22, 2026, bringing together professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders to discuss ways to deepen cooperation between the two sides.
Selah Getahun, CAPN’s Founder and Executive Director, said the organization’s 2026–2029 strategic plan focuses on practical initiatives spanning policy dialogue, trade and investment, education, research, technology and institutional partnerships.
Planned activities include Canada–Africa policy dialogues, a Canada–East Africa Business Forum, mentorship and leadership development, and collaboration among universities, researchers, entrepreneurs and technology professionals. Responsible artificial intelligence, digital skills and knowledge exchange are also among the proposed areas of cooperation.
The initiative comes as Canada seeks to deepen its engagement with Africa following the launch of its first global Africa Strategy in March 2025. CAPN aims to contribute to this effort by giving African-origin Canadians a stronger role in shaping relations between Canada and the continent.
