Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba (C) delivers a speech during the welcome reception for the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, Kanagawa prefecture, south of Tokyo. AFP
Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly represented Egypt at the conference to strengthen ties between Japan and Africa
The conference's theme, "Toward a Future Built by African and Japanese Youth Together," fostered dialogue and cooperation for the Youth Agenda 2055.
Dr. Sally Farid, a renowned economist and head of the Department of Politics and Economics at Cairo University's Faculty of African Studies, emphasized that TICAD's goal was to promote commercial investment and economic cooperation, rather than just providing developmental aid.
According to Dr. Farid, Japan had pledged $32 billion in aid to Africa, with Kenya receiving $4.5 billion.
The logo for the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) features a blue-green colour palette, symbolizing lush growth and the connection between Yokohama and Africa.
Designed by student Natsumi Watanabe, the logo incorporates the continent's shape into the letter "9," creating a memorable and impactful design. The emerald green colour is a combination of Yokohama's sea blue and the green found in some African national flags, representing majestic growth.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Japan remained committed to its investment goals in Africa.
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has recently pledged $30 billion for investment in Africa over three years.
The conference highlighted several key areas of cooperation between Japan and Africa, including infrastructure development, agriculture, healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing.
Japanese companies had a competitive edge in digital investment and innovation, making them an attractive model for African startups. Farid said.
As the conference progressed, it became clear that the relationship between Japan and Africa was poised for growth. With its soft power and lack of colonial history on the continent, Japan was well-positioned to strengthen its ties with Africa.
The future looked bright for Africa-Japan cooperation, and TICAD would continue to play a vital role in promoting this partnership.
As the conference came to a close, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to building a brighter future for Africa and Japan.
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