Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba proposed a new “Indian Ocean–Africa economic zone” during the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) to connect African economies with India and the Middle East, aiming to increase trade and investment.
Tokyo pledged $5.5 billion in loans via the African Development Bank to support sustainable development and reduce debt pressures.
The country also plans to train 30,000 AI specialists over three years to advance digital skills and job creation across Africa.
Global leaders highlighted the need for African countries to have more influence in international decision-making and financial systems, as many face barriers to accessing low-cost capital necessary for infrastructure, electrification, and industrial projects.
About 50 African nations attended TICAD 9 alongside global organizations.
The summit, which addresses economic growth, health, education, peace, and climate issues, will conclude with the release of the “Yokohama Declaration.