Arab News Japan

TOKYO: United Nations Development Program (UNDP) officials hailed Japan’s comprehensive package of support announced at the conclusion of the 8th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 8) in Tunisia, that aim to drive economic growth, digital innovation, green transition and create jobs in the face of numerous challenges.

UNDP Administrator Achim Steiner welcomed the assistance that the conference promised and said Africa was facing “food, energy and finance crises” and millions of people were facing hunger and famine.

“At this crucial moment, TICAD 8 and its business forum have mobilized fresh development partnerships with the private sector that aim to generate additional investment in some African countries, helping to drive green economic growth defined by new jobs and better livelihoods as well as much-needed measures to tackle a climate crisis that is hitting faster than expected,” he said.

Khalida Bouzar, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Arab States commented: “With its unique emphasis on African ownership, TICAD has become increasingly important for African countries and businesses alike. It remains one of the most innovative platforms for shaping international development collaboration with countries across the continent.”

Forty-eight African representatives, including 20 heads of states and governments, and top leadership at the African Union Commission participated in the two-day summit held in Tunisia, as well as the United Nations, development banks and public and private sector representatives. 

A total of $30 billion in public and private financial contributions were announced at the high-level meeting, including continuation of a $4 billion investment through Japan’s Green Growth Initiative for Africa to help address climate change on the continent. Additionally, a new $130 million facility was announced, to support efforts to address food insecurity across the continent as the ongoing war in Ukraine impacts food and fuel supplies. 

Japan also announced $1.5 billion support to tackle vaccine inequity through the COVAX program and $1.08 billion to the Global Fund that will help address Africa’s vaccine shortages.

The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), together with the UNDP and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) launched a new partnership to enhance trade and investment between Japanese and African private sector businesses.