Japan and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have unveiled a $5.5 billion financing framework to accelerate sustainable growth and infrastructure development across Africa. The initiative, announced by Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the opening of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, will leverage the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA) private sector investment finance as a catalyst. Ishiba underscored the importance of co-creation, stressing that Africa’s development requires locally rooted solutions, private sector-driven growth, and stronger participation of youth and women.
Speaking at the same forum, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu lauded Nigeria’s armed forces for their progress in combating insurgency and criminality, noting that true justice to their sacrifices comes when governments address not only terror but also its root causes. He highlighted his administration’s focus on economic reforms, infrastructure investment, and institutional strengthening as pathways to stability and development. Tinubu also called for greater market-driven cooperation among nations, urging Japan to back Africa’s push for reforms at the United Nations Security Council, including permanent representation with veto powers.
The conference, themed “Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” runs from August 20–22 in Yokohama. It brings together heads of state, international organizations, and private sector leaders to chart new strategies for economic transformation, peace, and sustainability. For Africa, the $5.5 billion financing framework represents not just capital but a strategic step toward unlocking private investments, strengthening resilience, and building inclusive prosperity across the continent.
