At the 2025 Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), held in Yokohama, Algeria reaffirmed its determination to strengthen Africa’s position as a leading global economic force. Representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Minister of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Micro-Enterprises, Nouredine Ouadah, delivered Algeria’s message during the high-level sessions on economic issues.
Africa at a Decisive Crossroads
Minister Ouadah emphasized that Africa is at a “critical stage” in its economic and developmental journey, requiring bold transformation strategies to place innovation and technology at the heart of progress. He highlighted digital transformation and artificial intelligence as essential levers for growth, stressing the vital role of African startups in wealth and job creation.
Four Pillars of Economic Transformation
The Algerian minister outlined four key pillars for Africa’s sustainable development:
- Innovation and Technology – investing in digital transformation, AI, and startups as engines of growth.
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) – channeling FDI into infrastructure, renewable energy, and manufacturing, while respecting local priorities and environmental standards.
- Natural Resources – ensuring fair and rational management of resources, diversifying economies, and reducing vulnerability to global crises.
- Human Capital – investing in Africa’s young, creative population through education, training, and entrepreneurship to transform potential into lasting prosperity.
Algeria’s Development Model
Drawing on Algeria’s own experience, Ouadah noted that the country has achieved sustained growth thanks to deep structural reforms, diversification beyond hydrocarbons, and an ambitious strategy to boost national production. Algeria today ranks as the third-largest economy in Africa, marked by economic independence and freedom from external debt.
Expanding International Partnerships
Minister Ouadah underscored Algeria’s drive to deepen strategic partnerships with Japan and Asian nations, particularly in technology, renewable energy, industrial development, and innovation transfer. He praised TICAD as a strategic platform for dialogue and cooperation, built on solidarity, respect, and mutual interests.
A Shared Vision for Africa’s Future
Organized in partnership with the African Union, Japan, the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and the World Bank, TICAD 2025 gathered representatives from 55 African nations alongside Japanese leaders and international organizations. The conference aims to advance the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the UN’s Agenda 2030, with a focus on economic transformation, social progress, and lasting peace and stability.
