At TICAD 9, leaders are focusing on industrial growth, healthcare and disaster response. Japan is expected to unveil new support plans, including the use of AI and digital technology to drive African economies. A proposal for an Indian Ocean–Africa economic zone is also on the table.

Talks are addressing Africa’s rising debt burden, particularly loans from China, and the impact of U.S. trade policies. With vast oil, copper and rare metal reserves, and a booming population, Africa is seen as a major growth hub.

Japan, which recognizes all 54 African nations as partners, aims to combine development aid with private investment, linking Africa’s progress to opportunities for Japanese companies.