Ottawa, Ontario – In a significant move to support sustainable development and human capital growth in East Africa, Canada has announced $25 million in funding for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programs. The initiative, which was launched during a recent visit to Ethiopia and Tanzania by Secretary of State Sarai, aims to improve skills development and economic empowerment opportunities for young people, particularly women.
During his five-day visit from July 17 to 23, 2025, Secretary of State Sarai engaged in site visits and strategic dialogues focused on education, health, economic empowerment, gender equality, and climate resilience. He also participated in the G20 Development Working Group Ministerial Meeting in South Africa, where high-level discussions were held on global development priorities, including curbing illicit financial flows and strengthening social protection systems.
The new funding will support two key projects: “BLOOM Africa” and “Increasing Economic Opportunities for Youth in Uganda and Tanzania.” “BLOOM Africa,” a $20-million project in partnership with World Vision Canada, aims to improve the economic empowerment of 25,200 marginalized youths – including 15,120 adolescent girls and young women – in Rwanda, Somalia, and Tanzania. In contrast, “Increasing Economic Opportunities for Youth in Uganda and Tanzania” is a $5-million project in partnership with FINCA Canada, which will increase economic opportunities for 41,000 young people in Tanzania and Uganda.
By supporting these initiatives, Canada is contributing to the growth of a more skilled workforce that can drive economic development and foster an inclusive business environment across East Africa. The new funding is expected to benefit over 66,000 young people across four countries, helping them build sustainable livelihoods in the green and digital economies.
At the G20 Development Working Group Ministerial Meeting, Secretary of State Sarai held bilateral meetings with counterparts from Norway, Japan, and Egypt to exchange perspectives and explore opportunities for further collaboration. His visit reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to meaningful collaboration and sustainable development that empowers communities, especially women and youths, across Africa.
Canada’s strong relationship with African countries is built on deep people-to-people connections, expanding trade and investment, and a shared commitment to peace, security, and human rights. The country has contributed significantly to development assistance in the region, with $3.9 billion in funding for Tanzania since its independence in 1961.
Key Facts About Canada’s Aid Efforts
- Canada is one of the largest recipients of aid from Canada.
- In fiscal year 2023-2024, Ethiopia received $195.3 million in funding, including funding from Global Affairs Canada for development, humanitarian, and peacebuilding assistance.
- Tanzania is one of the largest recipients of Canada’s international assistance, receiving $141.11 million in funding in fiscal year 2023-2024.
In conclusion, Canada’s announcement of $25 million in aid to East Africa marks an important milestone in its commitment to sustainable development and human capital growth in the region. By supporting skills development and economic empowerment initiatives, Canada is contributing to a more prosperous and inclusive future for young people across Africa.