Yokohama, Japan – The Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) has opened new ground in Japan–Africa relations. Leaders, business executives, and young innovators from across Africa gathered in Yokohama to work with Japan on trade, peace, and technology under the theme “Co-creating Innovative Solutions with Africa.”
Trade and investment: Big opportunities, real challenges
Japan has promised new investments in Africa’s infrastructure, renewable energy, and technology sectors. These are areas where many African countries face major gaps, from reliable transport systems to affordable power. For African governments, Japan’s commitment means a chance to boost industries, create jobs, and open markets.
But African leaders are cautious. They want to ensure that foreign investments do not only benefit outside companies. Local jobs, fair trade deals, and real skills transfer remain top concerns. As one African trade delegate said during the summit: “We welcome Japan’s investment, but Africa must own its development path.”
Peace and security: Building stability together
Development cannot happen without peace. This is why security was a key topic at TICAD 9. Japan has shown interest in supporting African-led peacekeeping and conflict prevention efforts. From the Sahel to eastern Congo, insecurity continues to slow economic growth and threaten lives.
African leaders asked Japan and other global partners to do more than send financial aid. They want partnerships that strengthen local peace initiatives, provide training, and build stronger institutions. For Japan, helping Africa achieve stability is also a way to show itself as a responsible global partner.
Technology and innovation: Youth at the centre
One of the most exciting parts of TICAD 9 has been the focus on innovation. Young African entrepreneurs showcased start-ups in clean energy, digital health, and education technology. Many of these ideas attracted Japanese investors eager to back Africa’s fast-growing tech scene.
The combination of Africa’s young population and Japan’s technological know-how is seen as a winning formula. Together, they can tackle global challenges such as climate change, digital inequality, and food insecurity. As one Kenyan entrepreneur put it: “Partnerships like TICAD give African youth the chance to turn ideas into impact.”
A Bridge for the future
TICAD 9 is more than another diplomatic summit. It is a chance for Africa and Japan to move from promises to real, practical action. The success of these talks will not be judged by the speeches in Yokohama but by the jobs created, the conflicts reduced, and the innovations scaled across the continent.
If commitments made at TICAD 9 are kept, the next decade may see Africa and Japan standing as true partners, co-creating solutions for a changing world.