Kenyan President William Ruto and Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud are expected to attend the upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) summit scheduled to take place in Yokohama from August 20 to 22, 2025. The two leaders are the first heads of state from East Africa to officially confirm their participation in the high-level meeting, which brings together African and Japanese leaders to strengthen political and economic partnerships.
Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced this week that preparations are in full swing for the summit, which is expected to draw delegations from across the African continent, as well as international organizations, business leaders and development partners. TICAD, launched in 1993 by the Government of Japan, has become one of the most prominent forums for Japan-Africa cooperation, held every three years with rotating venues between Japan and African countries.
President Ruto’s presence at the summit highlights Kenya’s growing ties with Japan in areas such as infrastructure development, technology, education and energy. Over the past decade, Japan has funded a wide range of projects in Kenya, including roads, port modernization and technical training programs. Nairobi is also home to one of the largest Japanese embassies in the region, serving as a hub for Japan’s diplomatic and development activities in East Africa.
Meanwhile, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s confirmation marks a significant diplomatic milestone. Somalia has recently strengthened its foreign policy engagement, and Japan remains one of the country’s most consistent development partners. Tokyo has provided humanitarian assistance, technical support for institution building and scholarships for Somali students. President Hassan Sheikh is expected to use the summit to deepen bilateral ties and explore new avenues for economic cooperation and security assistance.
Sources in both Nairobi and Mogadishu said that the two leaders may also hold bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the summit to address regional challenges, including maritime security, climate resilience and trade integration. Kenya and Somalia have maintained cautious yet strategic engagement in recent months amid evolving dynamics in the Horn of Africa.
The upcoming summit is expected to focus on several key themes, including private sector investment, peacebuilding, human security and digital transformation in Africa. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is scheduled to deliver the keynote address and will hold individual meetings with attending heads of state.
TICAD has gained credibility over the years for its inclusive, multilateral format and its emphasis on African ownership and international partnership. This year’s meeting in Yokohama will also spotlight youth innovation, green growth and health system resilience — areas that both Kenya and Somalia have prioritized in their national development plans.
Japanese officials have praised the confirmations by President Ruto and President Hassan Sheikh, saying they reflect Japan’s long-standing and growing relationships with African nations. More leaders are expected to confirm attendance in the coming weeks as the event draws near.
With preparations intensifying, Yokohama is preparing to host one of the most influential gatherings of African and international leaders this year. Security arrangements, protocol coordination and logistical planning are underway to ensure a successful summit.
