Very recent African immigrants and unemployment in British Columbia

Despite the provincial and federal governments focus on improving employment services through the Canada-British Columbia Immigration agreement, the unemployment rate among very recent African immigrants continues to remain the highest among other ethnic groups in Canada (StatCan, 2010). As such, this study looks into the various barriers faced by very recent African immigrants in finding employment in B.C., and addresses the problem through interviews with settlement agencies and a government department. Accordingly, this study recommends a bundle of policies to both governments. Policy recommendations include: collaborating among African-specific and multiservice agencies, creating a network “hub” through African-specific agencies, implementing a training program for entry-level positions and incorporating Canadian work experience opportunities into existing programs.