Stronger Together: Africa and Japan’s Partnership at TICAD9

A Transformative Gathering

From August 20 to 22, 2025, the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) took place in Yokohama, Japan. This pivotal event was marked by the participation of H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC). His presence not only highlighted Africa’s commitment to its strategic vision but also reinforced the significance of Japan as a fundamental partner in achieving shared goals of prosperity, peace, and sustainable development across the continent.

Emphasizing Innovative Collaborations

At the conference’s opening ceremony, Chairperson Youssouf delivered a compelling keynote address that underscored the enduring partnership between Africa and Japan. He noted that this collaboration is grounded in mutual respect and shared objectives. Youssouf called for bold, innovative partnerships, urging stakeholders to co-create solutions that resonate with Africa’s Agenda 2063 while aligning with TICAD9’s central themes of peace, growth, and inclusivity.

Prominently, he hailed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a “catalyst of energy, opportunity, and investment.” In this context, he emphasized the importance of mobilizing private capital, accelerating digital transformation, and expanding infrastructure and innovation ecosystems across Africa.

High-Level Discussions for Strategic Outcomes

Youssouf engaged in meaningful discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, commending the long-standing relationship Japan has fostered with African countries. Prime Minister Ishiba reiterated Japan’s support for Africa’s strategic priorities, especially following the African Union’s recent accession to the G20. Their discussions also included enhancing cooperation in various sectors such as trade, technology, and knowledge exchange, as well as bolstering policy dialogue under the TICAD framework.

In addition to these talks, Chairperson Youssouf met with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Their conversation revolved around potential collaborations in areas like peace and security, infrastructure, innovation, and the development of human capital. Youssouf emphasized the need to utilize Japan’s technical expertise to fuel Africa’s growth and transformation.

Furthermore, the Chairperson spoke with Muktar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC). Their dialogue concentrated on enhancing the role of private capital in advancing Africa’s economic landscape, particularly in infrastructure development, agriculture, the green transition, and digital innovation. Both men agreed on the necessity of intensifying AU-IFC collaboration to unlock financing for African entrepreneurs and elevate opportunities in critical sectors.

Showcasing Africa’s Priorities

Throughout TICAD9, AU Commissioners and senior officials were active participants in various side events. They effectively showcased Africa’s urgent priorities in critical areas such as food systems transformation, climate resilience, energy accessibility, youth empowerment, peace and security, and digital inclusion. These contributions not only highlighted the continent’s ambitions for internal transformation but also emphasized Africa’s potential to offer solutions to global challenges.

Chairperson Youssouf expressed support for the adoption of the Yokohama Declaration. This declaration strengthens Africa-Japan cooperation across several domains, including infrastructure, trade, digital transformation, agriculture, and technology transfer. Youssouf stated that the Declaration encapsulates the spirit of TICAD, emphasizing mutual respect, practical collaboration, and shared responsibility.

A Legacy of Trust

In his closing remarks, Chairperson Youssouf reflected on his personal journey with TICAD, as he has attended every conference since its inception. He described himself as a guardian of this unique partnership and reaffirmed that the legacy of TICAD is built on trust and consistency. Youssouf conveyed his belief that TICAD9 has paved the way for a new chapter of pragmatic cooperation between Africa and Japan.

He reiterated the African Union’s determination to propel Africa’s Agenda 2063 through strengthened relations with Japan and other international financial institutions. By calling for sustained political will, innovation, and inclusive collaboration, Youssouf underscored TICAD’s role as a vital bridge between Africa and Asia, aimed at creating a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient future for all.