AU Commission Chairperson Pushes for Deeper Africa–Japan Ties at TICAD9
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), H.E. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, has reaffirmed Africa’s commitment to forging stronger partnerships with Japan during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), held from 20–22 August in Yokohama.
Delivering a keynote address at the opening ceremony, Mr Youssouf described TICAD as a cornerstone of Africa–Japan cooperation and a vital platform for advancing prosperity, peace, and sustainable development. He urged both regions to embrace “bold and innovative partnerships” aligned with Africa’s Agenda 2063.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area is a catalyst of energy, opportunity, and investment,” he said, emphasising the need to mobilise private capital, accelerate digital transformation, and expand infrastructure and innovation ecosystems.
On the margins of TICAD9, the AUC Chairperson held high-level talks with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru. The two leaders pledged to deepen cooperation in trade, technology, and knowledge exchange, with Mr Ishiba reaffirming Japan’s support for Africa’s development following the AU’s accession to the G20.
Mr Youssouf also met with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to explore joint work in peace and security, human capital development, and innovation. In a separate meeting with International Finance Corporation (IFC) Managing Director Muktar Diop, discussions centred on unlocking private sector investment in infrastructure, agriculture, green transition, and digital innovation.
AU Commissioners and senior officials actively participated in side events, showcasing Africa’s priorities in food systems transformation, climate resilience, energy access, youth empowerment, peace and security, and digital inclusion.
The conference concluded with the adoption of the Yokohama Declaration, reaffirming Africa–Japan cooperation in infrastructure, trade, agriculture, peace and security, and technology. Mr Youssouf welcomed the outcome, noting that it reflected “mutual respect, practical collaboration, and shared responsibility for a fairer global order.”
Recalling his personal attendance at every TICAD since 1993, the Chairperson hailed the forum’s legacy of trust and consistency. He expressed confidence that TICAD9 had “opened a new chapter of pragmatic cooperation” between Africa and Japan.
“The African Union remains determined to advance Agenda 2063 through stronger partnerships with Japan and international financial institutions,” he said in his closing remarks. “This process continues to serve as a vital bridge between Africa and Asia in shaping a peaceful, prosperous, and resilient future.”
