The Kenyans in Japan Association (KIJA) is proud to have actively participated in the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), held in Yokohama from August 20–22, 2025. The conference brought together African and Japanese leaders, businesses, and civil society to chart a renewed path for Africa–Japan cooperation.

Kenya Investment Forum

One of the highlights was the Kenya Investment Forum, organized by the Kenya Investment Authority and graced by H.E. President William Ruto alongside Mayor of Yokohama City, Takeharu Yamanaka. Both leaders underscored the importance of deepening economic cooperation between Kenya and Japan. President Ruto highlighted Kenya’s readiness to partner with Japan in areas such as technology, green energy, manufacturing, and human capital development, while Mayor Yamanaka reaffirmed Yokohama’s commitment to strengthen its ties with Kenya.

Diaspora Forum Side Event

KIJA proudly co-hosted the Diaspora Forum side event together with the Embassy of Kenya in Japan. Themed around creating sustainable pathways for Kenyan talents to work in Japan, the forum featured a rich panel discussion with participation from Mitsui OSK Lines and TOYO Construction Co., Ltd.

A key outcome of the discussion was the recognition that a formal Labor Mobility Agreement between Kenya and Japan will be crucial in unlocking the full potential of labor cooperation. Such an agreement would not only facilitate the entry of Kenyan professionals and workers into Japan but also ensure structured support mechanisms for integration and retention.

KIJA’s Commitment

As the umbrella organization representing Kenyans in Japan, KIJA reaffirmed its commitment to:

•Promote the Kenyan workforce in Japan, highlighting their skills, professionalism, and adaptability.

•Provide community support to Kenyans arriving for work, ensuring smooth transition, cultural integration, and long-term prosperity.

•Strengthen diaspora participation in building bridges of cooperation between Kenya and Japan beyond the TICAD framework.

Diaspora Engagement

The strong participation of the Kenyan diaspora at TICAD 9 demonstrates the unique role diaspora communities can play in shaping the future of Africa–Japan relations. KIJA remains dedicated to working with the Government of Kenya, Japanese partners, and the wider African diaspora to transform labor mobility and investment opportunities into tangible development outcomes for both Kenya and Japan.