The Canadian Embassy in Zimbabwe celebrated Canada Day 2025 with a lively event that accentuated the growing diplomatic and economic ties between Canada and Zimbabwe.
Honourable Mangaliso Ndlovu, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, represented the Government of Zimbabwe in place of Honourable Professor Amon Murwira.
During his key speech Minister Ndlovu reiterated Zimbabwe’s dedication to both engagement and re-engagement with Canada, expressing gratitude for Canadian assistance in sectors such as mining, health, education, gender equality, and climate change adaptation.
Ambassador Adler Aristilde delivered a keynote address commemorating Canada’s 158th anniversary as a confederation, focusing on shared democratic principles, diversity, and economic collaboration. He noted significant recent developments, including Canada’s federal elections, the introduction of a new national energy strategy under Prime Minister Mark Carney, and Canada’s leadership as G7 Chair, emphasizing peace, energy security, and global partnerships.
In discussing bilateral relations, Ambassador Aristilde emphasized Canada’s growing influence within Zimbabwe’s economic sphere. Canada’s active involvement in the 65th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo and the success of the 3rd Canada-Africa Business Conference, co-hosted with the Zimbabwe Investment Development Agency (ZIDA), indicate a renewed emphasis on trade, investment, and innovation in areas such as energy, ICT, clean technology, and agriculture.
“As we celebrate Canada Day, we also celebrate our shared commitment to inclusive economic growth and a sustainable future,” stated Ambassador Aristilde. “Our Embassy’s initiatives in Zimbabwe align with Canada’s new Africa Strategy. A Partnership for Shared Prosperity and Security.”
A key aspect of this strategy is climate resilience. Ambassador Aristilde highlighted Canada’s $15 million investment over five years in nature-based climate adaptation projects in Binga, Gwanda, and Mwenezi, which aim to empower vulnerable communities through initiatives led by indigenous people.
Gender equality was another significant topic in the Ambassador’s address. As a co-chair of Zimbabwe’s #HeForShe movement alongside UN Women, Ambassador Aristilde reaffirmed Canada’s dedication to promoting women’s rights and combating gender-based violence. He recognized a growing coalition of #HeForShe supporters in Zimbabwe, including ambassadors, UN representatives, business leaders, civil society members, and Zimbabwean musician Victor Kunonga.
Minister Ndlovu echoed these sentiments, expressing appreciation for Canada’s diverse cooperation and encouraging more Canadian businesses to invest in Zimbabwe. “The Government is making significant strides to enhance the investment climate,” he remarked. “We welcome Canadian partners in our efforts to build Zimbabwe through heritage-based self-reliance and sustainable development.”
Both parties acknowledged the significance of the IMF’s ongoing Article IV consultations in Zimbabwe, expressing hope for positive outcomes that would support debt resolution and long-term macroeconomic stability.
The event ended with a toast to the leaders and citizens of both nations, celebrating the lasting friendship between Canada and Zimbabwe a partnership increasingly defined by shared values, mutual respect, and collaborative progress. Entertainment was provided by Vera and her band the Husbands.
This gathering, held in advance of Canada’s national day, brought together senior government officials among them Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, parliamentarians, diplomats, civil society members, business leaders, and the Canadian community.