November 19, 2006

by Her Excellency Michaëlle Jean

Canada’s governors general have traditionally played an important role in maintaining relations with other countries by undertaking State visits abroad.

Each year, the governor general hosts a significant number of State visits. As is the custom in international relations, the governor general is then in turn invited to visit a number of countries on behalf of Canadians, at the request of the prime minister. In accepting such invitations, the governor general reinforces existing international relations and strengthens ties in various sectors of Canadian life. A diverse delegation from every region of the country accompanies the governor general during these visits to show the host countries the many sides of Canada.

In this spirit, from November 18 to December 11, 2006, I will be embarking upon an important tour of Africa, visiting Algeria, Mali, Ghana, South Africa and Morocco-five countries that deserve our attention because democracy is thriving within their borders and considerable efforts have been made in several areas by a dynamic civil society, with the help of many Canadian workers. Each of these countries also depends on investments from Canadian businesses in key sectors of their economy. This is a unique opportunity to assess the nature, impact and tangible effects of Canada’s presence in Africa.

This trip is also an opportunity to shed new light on Africa, one that is contrary to the negative vision of Africa we see all too often. We will be meeting with women, men and youth who are full of hope and determined to face the many challenges before them each day with courage and dignity. Everyone agrees that peace, stability, training, justice, equality, health, good governance, transparency and prosperity are inextricably linked. And everyone is committed to making these a reality.

This journey promises to be rich in discovery and moving from a human standpoint given the many opportunities we will have to hear what Africans have to teach us. The people of Africa are proud of their history, their languages, their cultures and their values, which their continent has given to humanity.

This visit will be carried out in the spirit of friendship, fellowship, openness, and with the greatest respect for one another. For there is indeed hope in Africa.

I want to use this blog to share with you my experiences, my impressions and my thoughts.

I hope also to leave room for the small group of delegates from various sectors who have generously agreed to join me and for others we will meet along the way.

Pack your bags! Africa is calling!