Minister Lartey Urges Deeper Canada-Africa Economic Ties
Minister Agnes Naa Momo Lartey is calling for enhanced collaboration to boost economic opportunities for women.
Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Women’s Issues
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Should nations prioritize international cooperation agreements to increase women's economic participation?
Gender Minister Agnes Naa Momo Lartey recently urged Canada and African nations to strengthen their partnership to improve economic outcomes for women. Speaking in Ethiopia, she emphasized that overcoming structural barriers requires combined financial and educational support.
Why it matters
Integrated approaches remain necessary to bridge the gap in women's economic participation and ensure the long-term sustainability of women-owned businesses. Addressing these systemic obstacles is viewed as essential for broader market development across the continent.
Canada currently supports three major initiatives, including the Making Trade Work for Women in West Africa, the Enhancing Market Participation and Learning Opportunities for Young Women, and the Climate Resilient Livelihoods for Women in Northern Ghana.
The players
Agnes Naa Momo Lartey
She serves as the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection.
The details
The call for action occurred during a panel discussion at the Canada-Africa Policy Roundtable and Reception. Participants discussed how the African Continental Free Trade Area serves as a key opportunity for expanded market growth if gender-inclusive policies are prioritized.
Timeline
October 24, 2026: Minister Lartey addressed the Canada-Africa Roundtable in Addis Ababa.
Culture Shift
The discussion identified the African Continental Free Trade Area as a vital framework for market expansion that must incorporate specific gender-inclusive strategies to succeed. This push marks a departure from traditional trade policies by explicitly linking regional growth to the economic empowerment of women.
For entrepreneurs and women in business, these high-level discussions aim to eventually create more accessible market pathways and funding resources. Adopting these integrated support strategies could shift how women-owned enterprises access capital and training in the coming years.
The takeaway
Sustained economic growth relies on dismantling the structural hurdles that prevent women from participating fully in regional trade. Stakeholders should focus on layering financial support with skills development to move beyond temporary aid.
Further reading
Learn more about ongoing efforts to promote global gender equity in our Women’s Issues section.
Live Poll
Should nations prioritize international cooperation agreements to increase women's economic participation?
