The African Union (AU) is pushing for a deeper partnership with Japan to boost economic growth and sustainable development across the continent. This was the central message from Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, following his participation at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama.
During the three-day summit, Youssouf reaffirmed the AU's vision for a dynamic relationship with Japan, describing TICAD as a vital framework for advancing shared prosperity and peace.
In his keynote address, Youssouf emphasized the need for "bold, innovative partnerships" to create solutions that align with the AU's Agenda 2063. He highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a powerful engine for investment, calling for increased private capital, digital innovation, and infrastructure development.
On the sidelines of the conference, Youssouf engaged in several high-level meetings. He met with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, where both leaders committed to strengthening cooperation in trade and technology. The discussion also focused on Japan's continued support for Africa's priorities, especially after the AU joined the G20.
Youssouf also held talks with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to explore collaboration in critical areas such as peace and security, infrastructure, and human capital development. Additionally, a meeting with Muktar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation (IFC), centered on mobilizing private sector investment in sectors like agriculture, green transition, and digital innovation.
The summit culminated in the adoption of the Yokohama Declaration, which solidifies Africa-Japan cooperation in areas including trade, digital transformation, and peace and security. Youssouf welcomed the declaration, noting that it reflects the core spirit of TICAD: mutual respect and practical collaboration.
In his closing remarks, Youssouf, who has attended every TICAD since its inception, highlighted the process's legacy of trust and consistency. He expressed confidence that TICAD9 has opened a new chapter of pragmatic cooperation between Africa and Japan, stressing the importance of sustained political will to drive Africa’s prosperity.
