On 20 August 2025, The Japan News published an opinion piece by João Filipe Papel (JSPS Fellow, UNU-IAS), which argues for the transformation of the Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD), shifting it from an aid-centric model to an investment-focused one.
Excerpt:
As TICAD 9 opens in Yokohama, we have a historic chance to pivot from traditional aid to bold, investment-focused partnerships emphasizing co-creation, innovation and youth. Turning this vision into action requires setting clear investment targets, translating discussions into concrete projects, and embracing mutual accountability.
The Japan News is the English-language sister publication of Japan’s highest-circulation daily newspaper, The Yomiuri Shimbun.
The full article is available on The Japan News website and in print.
