At the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf underscored the importance of deepening cooperation between Africa, Japan, and global partners to build a more sustainable and resilient future.

In his address, Youssouf highlighted mobilizing private capital for quality infrastructure, fostering innovation, and advancing the digital economy, alongside related education, as critical pathways for Africa’s development. “Mobilizing private capital for quality infrastructure and innovation sectors remain a promising challenge,” he said, stressing the need for practical action.

The Chairperson called on governments, development partners, the private sector, and civil society to renew their commitment to innovation-driven collaboration. “Together, we can co-create solutions that are transformative, inclusive, and ensure no one is left behind, while helping to strengthen bonds for a prosperous, resilient future,” he affirmed.

Youssouf noted that partnerships advancing the digital economy and its vast potential will be central to Africa’s growth trajectory. He urged stakeholders to seize the opportunity presented at TICAD9 to chart forward-looking strategies and reinforce Africa’s role as a partner in shaping global progress.