At the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, UN Secretary-General António Guterres sent a clear message: Africa’s time has come. He reminded world leaders that with the youngest population on earth, abundant resources, and unmatched entrepreneurial energy, the continent is positioned for greatness if given a fair seat at the global table.
Guterres did not mince words about the need for reform. He pointed to the UN Security Council, where Africa still lacks a permanent seat, insisting that global governance must mirror today’s realities, not outdated power structures. For him, a fairer world begins with giving Africa its rightful voice in decision-making.
On finance, the UN chief described the current international system as “unjust and unfair.” He demanded urgent debt relief and reforms to level the playing field for African countries, who often pay the highest price for crises they did not cause.
But Guterres also stressed that Africa must benefit first from its own resources. Despite holding vast mineral wealth, the continent receives just 2% of global renewable energy investment, while 600 million people still lack electricity. Strengthening local value chains, he argued, will ensure resources fuel African prosperity before enriching others.
He further called for massive investment in technology, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and STEM education, highlighting Japan’s role in bridging Africa’s digital divide. Women and young people, he said, must also be given space to drive economies and politics forward.
Linking progress to peace, Guterres closed with a reminder that sustainable growth cannot happen without stability. Ending conflicts, building social cohesion, and creating safe environments for investment, he argued, are the true foundations of Africa’s development.
