COMESA Secretary General Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe, joined the African Heads of State and Government and the Japanese Government for the 9th Edition of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, Japan from 20th – 22nd August 2025, held under the theme “Co-create Innovative Solutions with Africa,” focused on the three pillars of economy, human society, and peace and stability.

TICAD 9, Discussions centered on enhancing partnership and cooperation between Africa and Japan within these areas, emphasizing the importance of locally driven solutions for the continent. The parties further committed to working together to strengthen initiatives that support the achievement of Agenda 2063.

The Secretary General also held a bilateral meeting with the state minister for Foreign Affairs of the Government of Japan Mr. Hisayuki Fujii. Discussions with the state minister centred around enhancing cooperation with COMESA Member States in Trade Facilitation, Industrialisation, Agriculture, infrastructure development, technology, peace and security as well as youth and women. 

 Japan through JICA supported the establishment of the Chirundu One Stop Border Post and the Minister indicated that Japan would like to give more support towards establishment of One Stop Border Posts in the region as well as support in border modernisation. 

The Secretary General also had a bilateral meeting with the JICA Senior Vice President Mr. Ando Noaki where the two parties explored areas of cooperation. The two parties agreed on the need for support towards regional efforts to contribute to the goal of achieving a single market through the African Continental Free Trade Area.