Yokohama: Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, concluded his engagement at the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Japan, emphasizing the significance of Africa’s collaboration with Japan for mutual growth and sustainable development.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Youssouf’s participation highlighted Africa’s strategic vision for a dynamic and transformative partnership with Japan. His keynote speech at the opening ceremony underscored the enduring relationship between Africa and Japan, focusing on the mutual respect and shared priorities that guide their collaboration.
During the conference, Youssouf emphasized the African Continental Free Trade Area as a key driver for energy and investment, advocating for the mobilization of private capital and the acceleration of digital transformation. He engaged in high-level discussions with Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru, commending Japan’s role as a trusted partner in Africa’s developm
ent journey. Both leaders committed to enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and knowledge exchange.
In discussions with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Youssouf explored enhanced collaboration opportunities in areas such as peace and security, infrastructure, and human capital development. The importance of leveraging Japan’s technical expertise for Africa’s transformation was a focal point.
Youssouf also met with Muktar Diop, Managing Director of the International Finance Corporation, to discuss the role of private capital in Africa’s economic transformation. They focused on investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and digital innovation, agreeing to intensify AU-IFC collaboration to unlock financing for African entrepreneurs.
Throughout TICAD9, AU Commissioners and senior officials actively participated in side events, showcasing Africa’s priorities in areas like food systems transformation, climate resilience, and digital inclusion. These interventions highlighted
Africa’s ambitions to address global challenges.
In his closing remarks, Youssouf reflected on his personal involvement in every TICAD since its inception, emphasizing the legacy of trust and consistency that TICAD represents. He expressed confidence that TICAD9 has paved the way for a new chapter of cooperation between Africa and Japan, advocating for sustained political will, innovation, and inclusive collaboration to drive Africa’s future prosperity.