TICAD 9: Japan and African Leaders Chart a Course for Collaborative Growth
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Yokohama, Japan – The Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) concluded today with a renewed commitment to multilateralism and a strategic focus on co-creating innovative solutions with African nations. The conference, held August 20-22, 2025, in Yokohama, brought together leaders from across Africa and japan, alongside representatives from the United Nations, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the World Bank, and the African Union Commission (AUC).
A Legacy of Partnership
For over three decades, TICAD has served as a pivotal forum for discussing and advancing African development. This year’s conference built upon that legacy, emphasizing a shift from development for Africa to development with Africa. The theme, ”co-Create Innovative Solutions with africa,” underscored the continent’s immense potential, fueled by its young population, abundant natural resources, and dynamic entrepreneurial spirit.
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and President João Lourenço addressed attendees,highlighting the importance of a collaborative approach to tackling interconnected global crises and persistent inequalities. The conference acknowledged the need to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through targeted investment, impactful reforms, and strengthened partnerships.
Discussions centered around five key priorities designed to propel Africa’s development trajectory. Thes included reforming global governance structures, investing in sustainable value chains, harnessing digital innovation, prioritizing people-centered development, and fostering peace and stability.
Reforming Global Governance
A central tenet of the conference was the call for a more equitable global order. Leaders emphasized the urgent need to reform both political and financial institutions to better reflect contemporary realities. Specifically, the discussion focused on increasing African depiction within the United Nations Security council, where the continent currently lacks a permanent member, and overhauling the international financial architecture to give African nations a stronger voice in decision-making processes.
Africa must have a stronger voice in shaping the decisions that affect its future
, stated a representative from the African Union Commission. Addressing the continent’s debt burden was also a key focus, with calls for bold action on debt relief, referencing the Sevilla Commitment as a potential framework for solutions.
Investing in Sustainable Value Chains
The conference highlighted the importance of moving beyond the export of raw materials and investing in sustainable global value chains. Leveraging the African continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was identified as crucial for creating decent jobs, building resilience, and adding value to African resources. Addressing Africa’s energy paradox - the vast renewable energy potential coupled with limited access to electricity for 600 million Africans – was also prioritized.
Did You Know? …
Africa possesses 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, yet relies heavily on food imports.
Harnessing Digital Innovation
recognizing the transformative power of technology, leaders emphasized the need to bridge the digital divide in africa. Japan’s technological expertise was positioned as a key asset in providing adequate digital public infrastructure and ensuring that African nations can fully participate in the digital economy. The potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) was also discussed, with a commitment to ensuring that AI benefits all, as outlined in the Pact for the Future. A new report detailing innovative financing options for building AI capacity in developing countries was shared.
People-Centered development
Investing in human capital was identified as paramount. The conference underscored the importance of equipping young Africans with the skills and education, particularly in STEM fields, needed to drive future growth. Emphasis was also placed on ensuring decent jobs, social protection, and meaningful participation for women across all sectors of society.
Peace and Stability as Foundations for Growth
Recognizing the inextricable link between peace and prosperity, leaders called for sustained efforts to silence the guns across the continent, as advocated by the African Union. Strengthening social cohesion and stability was identified as essential for attracting investment and fostering sustainable economic development.
Key Commitments and Next Steps
| Area of Focus | Key Commitment |
|---|---|
| Debt Relief | Explore the Sevilla Commitment framework and increase lending capacity of multilateral development banks. |
| Renewable Energy | Increase investment in Africa’s renewable energy potential. |
| Digital Infrastructure | Bridge the digital divide through technology transfer and infrastructure development. |
| Youth Empowerment | Invest in STEM education and create decent job opportunities. |
The conference reaffirmed the commitment to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable development and the African Union’s Agenda 2063 as roadmaps for a future of dignity, opportunity, and peace.
Pro Tip: …
The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents a potential market of 1.3 billion consumers, offering important opportunities for intra-African trade and economic growth.
What role will international cooperation play in realizing Africa’s full potential? And how can technology be leveraged to address the continent’s most pressing challenges?
The TICAD process, initiated in 1993, has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting the changing dynamics of the relationship between Japan and Africa. Initially focused on economic assistance, TICAD has broadened its scope to encompass peace and security, health, and environmental sustainability. The increasing prominence of private sector engagement and the emphasis on co-creation represent a strategic shift towards a more sustainable and impactful partnership. Looking ahead, the success of TICAD 9 will depend on the effective implementation of the commitments made and the continued dedication of all stakeholders.
Frequently Asked Questions about TICAD 9
- what is TICAD? TICAD stands for the Tokyo International conference on African development, a major international forum for discussing African development.
- What was the theme of TICAD 9? The theme was “Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa.”
- Where was TICAD 9 held? TICAD 9 was held in Yokohama, Japan.
- Who are the key partners involved in TICAD? The key partners include Japan, the United Nations, the UNDP, the World Bank, and the African Union Commission.
- What are the main priorities identified at TICAD 9? The main priorities are reforming global governance, investing in sustainable value chains, harnessing digital innovation, people-centered development, and fostering peace and stability.
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