Empowering Africa’s Future Leaders: Ashinaga at TICAD 9

Last week, Ashinaga took part in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama. Established in 1993, TICAD is a leading multilateral forum co-hosted by the Government of Japan, the United Nations, UNDP, the World Bank, and the African Union Commission. Guided by the principles of African ownership, international partnership, and openness, it brings together heads of state, international organizations, the private sector, and civil society to advance Africa’s development through high-level dialogue and collaboration. This year’s edition welcomed representatives from 49 African countries, including 33 heads of state and government, and centered on themes of innovation, youth and women’s empowerment, business engagement, and inclusive partnerships.

TICAD brought together more than 200 organizations and companies, and Ashinaga was proud to be among them. Our presence extended across multiple platforms, with booths that allowed visitors to engage directly with staff and Ashinaga Africa Initiative (AAI) Scholars, learn more about our programs, and take home handmade crafts from the Ashinaga Uganda Craft Club. These interactions gave a human face to our work, highlighting the creativity, resilience, and vision that define our community.

AAI Scholars also took part as country representatives in the Model African Union (MAU), a youth-led simulation of the AU’s Specialized Technical Committees and General Assembly held during TICAD. Under the theme “Inayojumuisha: Youth Co-creation, Shaping Africa’s Future,” they joined peers from Africa and Japan to debate issues ranging from economic integration to political reform and digital infrastructure. Their months of preparation and thoughtful contributions reflected the determination of young Africans to drive inclusive and sustainable development. The presence of Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security at the African Union Commission, further underscored the importance of youth voices in shaping Africa’s future.

AAI Graduates also played a central role in two panel discussions hosted by Ashinaga at TICAD. In one, “The Role of African Students as Changemakers,” Graduates including, Chigaemezu from Nigeria, Ezekiel from Sierra Leone, and Walter from Uganda reflected on their experiences in Japan and how African students abroad are already serving as bridges between Africa and Japan. The second panel, “Contributing to Africa Through Business: Developing Future Leaders to Bridge Africa and Japan,” featured AAI Graduates Petemoya and Walter, who now work at Yokogawa Electric Corporation and Tromso Co. Ltd. respectively, alongside their employers. Through the second panel discussion, participants emphasized the importance of Japanese companies and African professionals collaborating to tackle shared challenges. For Japanese companies collaborating with Africa on issues such as developing the manufacturing sector, creating youth employment, and adapting to climate change, AAI Graduates can play a vital bridging role. With experience studying and working in Japan while maintaining strong ties to Africa, they are well positioned to connect cultures, business practices, and local needs. Their AAI leadership training and professional experiences have also fostered adaptability and problem-solving skills that enable them to contribute to effective partnerships between Japan and Africa.

TICAD 2025 underscored the importance of investing in youth leadership as a driver of Africa’s development. The discussions highlighted how young professionals, including AAI Scholars and Graduates, are beginning to contribute to industries, policies, and partnerships across continents. Their experiences illustrate that while education creates opportunity, it is leadership and initiative that turn opportunity into meaningful impact.