I am wondering the same thing. Now is precisely when we should be making our mark. If we truly want to demonstrate that Canada is a reliable partner and ally to African countries, now is the time to increase our support for this continent, in the form of development aid, but also in other ways.
However, as you pointed out, the signals we are sending right now indicate quite the opposite. That is why I said earlier that I am very confused about the government's current policy direction.