Gabby Otchere-Darko Seals Game-Changing Canada-Africa Trade Pact in Abidjan
Chair of the Africa Prosperity Network (APN), Gabby Asare Otchere-Darko, has underscored the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing Africa’s economic integration following the signing of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business.
The agreement, formalized on the sidelines of the ongoing Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, aims to strengthen trade and investment ties between Canada and African economies. It was signed during a high-level reception at the Canadian Embassy by Mr. Otchere-Darko and Paula Caldwell St-Onge, Chair of the Canada-Africa Chamber, with Canada’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, Anderson Blanc, witnessing the occasion.
“At APN, we believe in strong and practical partnerships that result in bankable projects across the continent,” Mr. Otchere-Darko stated. “This partnership with the Canada-Africa Chamber of Business creates new pathways for meaningful economic engagement.”
The MoU outlines commitments to reciprocal participation in programs and events hosted by both organizations and provides a framework for collaborative initiatives to boost trade and investment flows. It also serves as a key pillar for accelerating the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals through international cooperation.
Ambassador St-Onge, who previously served as Canada’s Director General for Pan African Affairs, noted, “This MoU includes tangible commitments to reciprocity between our organizations’ extensive program offerings and establishes a framework for new collaborative initiatives that will directly support the acceleration of Canada-Africa trade and investment.”
She further acknowledged the instrumental role of former Chamber Board Chair, Sebastian Spio-Garbrah, in facilitating the partnership.
Canada’s envoy to Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Blanc, praised the collaboration as a forward-thinking effort. “This MoU is more than a formal agreement — it is a bridge between ideas, people, and shared ambitions,” he said. “Canada is committed to fostering partnerships that harness innovation and create meaningful connections between African and Canadian businesses.”
The Canada-Africa Chamber of Business served as an official partner for the Canada Program during the Africa CEO Forum, with private sector support backing the initiative.
