President Mnangagwa Highlights Tech-Driven Growth at TICAD 9

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has emphasized the critical role of adopting modern technologies to boost infrastructure growth and improve public service delivery in Zimbabwe and across Africa.

Speaking at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, Japan, the President outlined Zimbabwe’s commitment to investing in digital infrastructure that connects rural and urban areas, helping to reduce inequality in digital access.

“Zimbabwe is actively working on regional digital infrastructure initiatives aimed at bridging the digital divide, particularly in rural communities,” Mnangagwa told delegates. “Africa’s people and economies must be empowered to fully engage in the digital era. Technological advancement should transform key sectors such as agriculture, mining, maritime industries, infrastructure, and essential services.”

He also called for strengthened collaboration between African countries and Japanese businesses, noting that such partnerships are vital for shaping a shared and prosperous future.

“We welcome the TICAD 9 priority focus areas and believe they will help us achieve ambitious but realistic development goals,” he said. “The lasting partnership between Africa and Japan must be a vehicle for co-creating the future we envision—where improved living standards are accessible to all, and no one is left behind.”

TICAD 9 brought together more than 40 heads of state and government, as well as global stakeholders, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in Africa’s development journey.