The African Development Bank (AfDB) is gearing up to leverage the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan, to secure new investment, deepen partnerships, and accelerate Africa’s development agenda at a time of widening financing gaps.
The conference, taking place from 20–22 August 2025, comes at a critical moment as African economies confront climate shocks, rising debt, and infrastructure shortfalls. For the AfDB, Japan represents not only a source of capital but also a proven development partner with a track record of supporting industrial growth, innovation, and private sector-driven transformation.
Building on Strong Foundations
Over the years, TICAD has evolved into one of the most enduring partnerships between Africa and an advanced economy. Since the first meeting in 1993, the forum has mobilized billions of dollars in development finance, technical support, and private investment. Through the Enhanced Private Sector Assistance (EPSA) Initiative, co-created with Japan in 2005, the AfDB has secured co-financing for African businesses and infrastructure while supporting capital replenishments.
At TICAD9, the Bank is expected to sign EPSA6, the next phase of the framework, which will continue channeling resources into African private sector growth. This includes support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a key driver of jobs across the continent.
Japanese Partnerships Driving AfDB’s “High 5s”
Strategic collaborations with Japanese agencies such as JICA, JBIC, and NEXI have already delivered impact in energy, transport, health, and climate resilience. These partnerships align with the AfDB’s “High 5s” priorities: Light up and Power Africa, Feed Africa, Industrialize Africa, Integrate Africa, and Improve the Quality of Life for Africans.
For Africa, access to reliable energy remains a major challenge, with 600 million people still without power. During a TICAD side-event on energy access, AfDB officials underscored that solving Africa’s energy deficit is the foundation for building infrastructure, powering industries, and raising living standards.
Unlocking New Opportunities for Investment
At TICAD9, the AfDB will host multiple side events to court Japanese investors in high-growth sectors such as green hydrogen, agriculture, transportation, health, and education. The Bank will also showcase the Africa Investment Forum, its flagship marketplace connecting global investors with bankable African projects.
In December 2024, the Forum’s Market Days in Morocco featured a Japan-focused session on agricultural innovation and green growth, attracting 100 Japanese firms and institutions. AfDB officials believe TICAD9 is the moment to turn that interest into concrete deals.
Why It Matters for Africa and Ghana
For African countries like Ghana, which is working to diversify its economy and industrial base, the AfDB’s efforts in Tokyo could translate into new financing for infrastructure, climate adaptation, and industrialization. Japanese expertise in renewable energy, logistics, and manufacturing could also offer technical solutions for Ghana’s growing urban and energy needs.
AfDB Vice Presidents including Kevin Kariuki (Power, Energy, Climate & Green Growth) and Solomon Quaynor (Private Sector, Infrastructure, Industrialisation) will lead the Bank’s pitch, highlighting Africa’s investment potential while calling for long-term, predictable financing.
Beyond Grants: Towards Shared Growth
Unlike traditional aid frameworks, the AfDB’s approach at TICAD is to frame Africa as an investment destination, not a recipient of charity. With African consumption projected to exceed $2.1 trillion by 2030 and a youthful workforce eager for opportunities, the Bank argues that the continent is ripe for private sector-driven partnerships.
As AfDB Chief Economist Kevin Urama has noted, what Africa needs is not more short-term loans but structured partnerships that unlock capital, transfer technology, and strengthen resilience against global shocks.
With TICAD9 set to reinforce Africa-Japan relations, the AfDB hopes to emerge with new commitments that will power inclusive growth, deliver energy access, and help African economies withstand global turbulence.
