President John Dramani Mahama has declared that Africa is ready for business, calling on leaders across the continent to embrace reforms that will make Africa a credible destination for global investment.
Speaking during the closing session of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, Japan, Mahama emphasized that a rules-based trading system and support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) are crucial to Africa’s future economic growth.
“Africa is open for business. We wish to partner with any nation on a win-win basis. But let’s not kid ourselves, trade and investments will not come to Africa because we wish for it,” Mahama cautioned.
Yokohama Declaration: A New Roadmap for Africa-Japan Relations
The three-day TICAD 9 conference ended with the adoption of the Yokohama Declaration, which outlined commitments to strengthen Japan-Africa cooperation in:
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Economy and trade
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Peace and stability
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Health and governance
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Youth entrepreneurship and job creation
The declaration also reaffirmed that democracy and the rule of law are the foundation for sustainable development.
Japanese Investment Commitments
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his closing remarks, unveiled new initiatives including:
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The creation of an Indian Ocean–Africa Economic Zone to boost Japanese business expansion.
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An AI training programme for 300,000 African professionals over the next three years.
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$100 million investment in Ghana, targeting technology, infrastructure, and youth empowerment projects.
Looking Ahead to TICAD 2028
With TICAD 9 concluded, focus now shifts to implementation of the Yokohama Declaration. The next conference will be held in Africa in 2028, where the continent is expected to showcase progress in reforms, investment, and development.
Mahama reaffirmed that Africa must prove itself ready to compete on the global stage, not only through declarations but by building strong institutions, stability, and credible reforms.
Key Takeaway
Mahama’s message was clear: Africa’s future lies in creating a stable and competitive environment that attracts trade, investment, and sustainable partnerships.
Source: Trendz Gh
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