Halfway through a five (5) nation mission in Africa, the UN Envoy on Youth kicked off a visit with her delegation to the Canadian High Commissioner in Ghana alongside the UNFPA Country Representative, Mr. Niyi Ojuolape. The visit was intended to renew the Envoy’s commitment to girls’ empowerment. Working closely with UNFPA and other partners, the Canadian Government has been a strong partner in promoting gender equality, access to services and education for young girls.

Thanking the High Commissioner for accepting to have an audience, the Youth Envoy conveyed great appreciation for Canada’s role and leadership in promoting and supporting youth development. Noting the role the Canadian Prime Minister has played in elevating the issues young people face to the international stage by showing proactive leadership. Asides from being the Prime Minister, His Excellency Justin Tradeau is also the Minister of Youth of Canada. This makes the leadership, resources and ideas Canada shows to the rest of the world an important reference point on youth development.

The High Commissioner congratulated the Youth Envoy for her appointment and welcomed the iteration of male and female appointments for the position and hope it going to be institutionalised. The Commissioner noted that Canada is committed to youth development. One of its youngest Ministers is 30 years of age and while it celebrates international development week, the country is looking at the value of investing in young people and showcasing youth development. In Africa, Canada is working in a number of countries to also advance issues of gender equality, women’s empowerment and addressing harmful practices.

The Youth Envoy reiterated her commitment to work closely with the Canadian Government, noting her priorities to include promoting and recognising youth engagement in the implementation of the sustainable development goals. Other priorities of the envoy include Peace and Security and Gender Equality.

The Youth Envoy continues her visit in Ghana with bilateral visits and a youth townhall.