# Section 2. Japan's Leadership and African Development

### 1. Basic Philosophy of TICAD

## (2) TICAD Process

Japan aggressively works towards African development utilizing the TICAD process as an axis. TICAD has been held once every five years, but it is actually an ongoing process. Between conferences there are various ministerial meetings, preparatory meetings, and working-level talks held in relation to TICAD focused on individual sectors such as trade and investments, the consolidation of peace, and environment and energy. TICAD functions as a process where African countries and the international community come together to present policy for African development.

Fourth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IV) (May 2008) (Source: AFP=Jiji)

## (2) Ownership and Partnership

Through the TICAD process, Japan has asserted the importance of ownership (self-help) by African countries and partnerships (cooperation) with the international community to support that ownership for African development.

The aforementioned NEPAD was adopted as an independent initiative by Africa for African development at the July 2001 assembly of the Organization of African Unity (OAU; the predecessor of the current AU). The TICAD Ministerial-level Meeting held in December of the same year served as a first opportunity to introduce NEPAD to the international community. Since then, the TICAD process has strengthened collaborations with NEPAD to support independent undertakings by African countries.

Adhering to the belief that a large number of partners will be needed for African development, Japan has sought the participation of developed countries, the UN development aid organizations including UNDP and the World Bank, as well as from civil societies including NGOs in the TICAD process. In particular, TICAD IV invited private enterprises and foundations that are active in the field of African development from the perspective of further expansion of partnerships. Furthermore, speeches were made personally by Bono, lead singer of international rock group U2, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Dr. Wangari Maathai.

## (3) Asia-Africa Cooperation

The TICAD process also emphasizes the importance of South-South cooperation, mainly between Asia and Africa. Since the conclusion of World War II, Japan has worked together with other Asian countries to support economic development in Asia. In recent years developed Asian countries and African countries have been developing their economic relationship. TICAD advocates the importance of utilizing the development experience of Asia for Africa, and works to promote trade and investment between the two regions through human resources development projects including training programs in Asian countries as well as the Africa-Asia Business Forum.

### 2. Significance of Support for Africa

Based on the idea that global stability and prosperity are unattainable without first resolving problems in Africa, Japan believes it necessary to continue making appropriate contributions to various issues in Africa as a responsible member of the international community. Supporting the development efforts of developing countries is a peaceful and important means for realizing peace and prosperity in the global community. Support for African development is important from the viewpoint of international peace.