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Kenya and other African countries are set to benefit from stronger economic and strategic ties with Japan following a high-level visit by Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, who outlined his country’s major diplomatic vision for the continent.
Speaking during a policy address in Nairobi on Sunday, May 3, 2026, hosted by the Embassy of Japan in Kenya in partnership with the Global Centre for Policy and Strategy (GLOCEPS), the minister said Japan is committed to deepening cooperation with Africa through a framework anchored on a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”
The address, titled “Shaping the Future of Japan-Africa Relations through a Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” was delivered at the Serena Hotel.
Japan to Focus on Peace, Growth and Youth in New Policy Shift
Motegi noted that the Indo-Pacific vision, first introduced in Kenya in 2016 by the late Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, is now marking its 10th anniversary. He said the policy has evolved to focus on helping countries strengthen resilience and make independent decisions in a changing global environment.
“Africa’s growth is Japan’s growth, and Japan’s future is Africa’s future,” Motegi said. “We hope to build a future where Japan and Africa become more resilient and prosperous together.”
He explained that Japan’s engagement with Africa will focus on three key pillars: promoting peace and stability, supporting economic growth for both regions, and empowering young people through education and exchange programs.
On peace and security, Motegi said Japan will continue supporting African countries through training and cooperation programs.
“Japan will stand alongside African countries and cooperate in promoting peace and stability across Africa,” he said.
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Economic Opportunities and Investments
On economic growth, he highlighted investments by Japanese firms such as Toyota and Isuzu, noting they have created thousands of jobs across the continent. He added that Japan will continue supporting regional trade through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and infrastructure development.
Motegi also stressed the importance of youth and knowledge exchange, saying Japan will expand education partnerships and volunteer programs.
“Young people can join hands with hope in their hearts and work together to build a prosperous society,” he said.
Partnerships and Way Forward
GLOCEPS, a policy think tank that promotes dialogue between Japan and Africa through its Council of Advisors Chairperson, Wilson Boinett, said the partnership between the two regions is strategic and timely.
“Africa is no longer on the margins… the continent is now central to conversations about economic security, digital transformation, and global governance,” Boinett said.
He added that GLOCEPS will focus on strengthening cooperation with Japan, including plans to establish a Kenya–Japan Institute for Strategic Relations and a fellowship program for young researchers.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency Kenya (JICA), Shinkawa Makoto, highlighted ongoing development projects and long-standing ties between the two countries.
“Japan has been supporting Kenya for over 60 years,” he said. “Every year, about 150 Kenyans go to Japan as trainees, and around 150 Japanese experts come to Kenya.”
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Shinkawa noted that Japan has invested heavily in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and health sectors, including projects in Mombasa and geothermal energy development.
Former Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General, Ambassador Josephine Ojiambo, praised the policy direction, saying it reflects a practical approach to partnership.
“Enduring partnerships are built on mutual respect, shared responsibility, and tangible outcomes,” Ojiambo said.
She added that the focus should now shift from policy discussions to implementation, noting that alignment is necessary, but implementation defines impact.
For Japan’s Foreign Affairs Minister, the future of Japan–Africa relations lies in shared progress and unity.
“Africa’s growth is Japan’s growth, and Japan’s future is Africa’s future,” he said. “It is my heartfelt wish that Africa will become a continent of peace and that the great waves of growth and innovation created together by Japan and Africa will enrich this continent and the world.”
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GLOCEPS Council of Advisors Chairperson, Wilson Boinett, delivers remarks on Africa’s relationship with Japan. PHOTO/GLOCEPS
