TICAD 9: Innovation and Social Development with Africa

20 August 2025 – Yokohama: The Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) is currently underway from 20-22 August in Yokohama, Japan led by the Government of Japan and co-hosted by the UN, UN Development Programme (UNDP), World Bank, and African Union Commission (AUC). Launched in 1993, the conference aims to promote Africa’s development, peace and security, through the strengthening of relations and multilateral cooperation and partnership between Japan and African countries. Beyond diplomacy, TICAD has generated tangible outcomes in social development, particularly through Japan-UNDP initiatives highlighted in the TICAD Impact Report (2023-2025) ahead of the conference.

TICAD has produced tangible results. Projects highlighted in the TICAD Impact Report (2023–2025) show how partnerships translate into community change:

· South Sudan: 2,000 youth and women engaged in cash-for-work and training, rehabilitating markets and vocational centres.

· Mali: Women-led cooperatives used solar-powered tools to boost onion farming and food security.

· Ethiopia: Nearly 1,000 persons with disabilities gained livelihoods and mobility aids for reintegration into society.

At TICAD 9, leaders and stakeholders are building on this legacy with a focus on youth, disability inclusion, digital innovation, and decent work. Key events include Youth TICAD 2025, discussions on jobs and resilience, cultural exchange on disability and development, and a panel on AI and higher education in Africa.

Notably, Prime Minister Ishiba has also emphasized in the opening remark, Japan’s commitment to harnessing AI to foster job growth, with a particular focus on Africa’s youth, who make up nearly three-quarters of the continent’s population. As a part of this effort, Ishiba announced the launch of the AI and Data Science Human Resource Development and Africa Economic Growth Initiative, which aims to train 30,000 AI industry professionals in Africa over the next three years. This is part of a broader pledge to develop 300,000 skilled professionals across sectors, ensuring that Africa’s young population can participate in the labour force, driving inclusive economic growth in the digital era.

TICAD 9 reaffirms that Africa’s future depends on development that is inclusive, resilient, and people centered. By prioritizing youth, investing in digital skills, expanding opportunities for women, and supporting persons with disabilities, Japan and its partners are strengthening the social foundations needed for long-term prosperity. This spirit of co-creation is not only transforming lives across Africa but also provides important momentum and preparation for the Second World Summit for Social Development, where global leaders will carry these lessons forward to shape a more equitable future.

Find more information on the conference here.