Since its launch in 1993, the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) has been guided by the principle of African ownership and international partnership. While the TICAD began in the aftermath of the Cold War to address aid gaps in Africa, this forum has in recent years shifted its focus from traditional aid toward investment and business opportunities.

Africa, with its young population and abundant resources, is expanding its influence and is expected to become a global powerhouse in the future. At the same time, multifaceted challenges remain in building a sustainable economy ensuring further development, whilst realizing an inclusive society with lasting peace, security, and stability. Addressing these challenges requires Africa and its partner countries to co-create innovative solutions through public–private partnerships, the empowerment of youth and women, and regional integration and connectivity within and beyond the region. Indeed, the TICAD 9 Yokohama Declaration adopted in August 2025 included concrete commitments such as strengthening regional integration and connectivity, promoting digital transformation and the use of AI, developing human resources, and safeguarding human security through good governance, democracy, and the rule of law.

Looking ahead, Africa and Asia, including Japan, are expected to deepen cooperation, raising several pressing questions: how should countries expand public–private partnerships, private-sector investment, and industrial development? How can they strengthen connectivity to support those initiatives? And how can they ensure both socio-economic stability and the rule of law with diverse values?