Japan will open the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development on 20 August in Yokohama, with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba chairing the three-day gathering. Tokyo has invited 49 African nations and expects delegations from more than 40 countries, including 33 heads of state or government, to debate economic, social and security issues under the themes of economy, peace and society. Government officials say Ishiba will unveil an “Indian Ocean–Africa Economic Zone Initiative” designed to spur Japanese investment across the continent and counter growing Chinese and Russian influence. More than 300 memoranda of understanding between Japanese organisations and African partners are scheduled to be signed during the summit, reflecting interest in sectors ranging from critical minerals to digital infrastructure. Kenyan President William Ruto departed Nairobi on 18 August to attend the summit and hold bilateral talks with Ishiba. Kenya is already the largest recipient of Japanese aid in Africa, with cooperation valued at over KSh600 billion. The two leaders are expected to review financing for the expansion of Mombasa Port, the Mombasa Port Area Road Development, the Dongo Kundu Special Economic Zone and Nairobi’s urban transport network, as well as collaboration in agriculture, climate resilience and education. Ruto intends to use the forum to advocate for deeper implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area and the removal of remaining trade barriers. Side events will include youth and nuclear-technology forums, while Ishiba is scheduled to meet individually with several African counterparts before issuing a closing communiqué on 22 August.