“With the youngest population in the world, abundant natural resources, and a dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, Africa is ready to move forward,” he declared at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Yokohama.
He added that the theme of the meeting – Co-creating Innovative Solutions with Africa – underlined that these assets can help shape a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world both in Africa and beyond.
Progress and Reforms
In this regard, he emphasized the need to accelerate progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through investment, reforms, and partnerships.
Mr. Guterres highlighted five areas of cooperation, beginning with his long-standing commitment to reforming global governance institutions so that they reflect today’s realities.
“Africa must have a stronger voice in shaping decisions that affect its future,” he stated. “This includes the long-awaited reform of the Security Council, where, remarkably, Africa has no permanent member and other regions remain underrepresented.”
He also called for an overhaul of the international financial architecture, describing the current system as “unjust and inequitable,” along with bold measures on debt relief.
Value Chains and Renewable Energy
The UN chief then stressed the importance of investing in sustainable global value chains and regional integration.
“Africa’s path to prosperity must focus on adding value to its raw materials, creating decent jobs, and strengthening resilience, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area,” he said.
He also addressed Africa’s “energy paradox,” noting that despite its enormous potential for renewable energy production, the continent receives only 2% of global investment in the sector. At the same time, some 600 million Africans lack access to electricity.
“Africa also hosts the critical minerals needed to power renewable technologies,” he continued. “But the countries that host them must be the first and foremost to benefit, while adding value to both local and global value chains.”
Investing in Technology, Youth, and Peace
On technology, Mr. Guterres urged harnessing digital innovation, including artificial intelligence (AI), in the service of development.
He stated that Japan’s technological leadership could help bridge the digital divide and “ensure that technology helps African countries catch up through adequate digital public infrastructure, rather than being left behind.”
“With young people being the builders of Africa’s future,” the Secretary-General stressed the need to invest in their skills and education, particularly in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).
“Let us invest in the full participation of women across economies, societies, and political systems,” he added.
Mr. Guterres concluded by highlighting the link between peace and prosperity: “Sustainable development requires lasting peace.”
“By silencing the guns, as the African Union rightly stresses. And by ending violence in all its forms, while strengthening social cohesion and stability—factors that can attract investment and business in Africa,” he added.
