19 Aug 2025

Vice President and Minister of Finance, Mr Ndaba Gaolathe will lead Botswana’s delegation to Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) in Yokohama, Japan, from August 20 to 21, 2025.

A press release from the Office of the President says TICAD, co-organised by Japan, the United Nations, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), World Bank and the African Union, provides a platform for dialogue on Africa’s development agenda, with a focus on strengthening partnerships that advance investment, innovation and sustainable growth.

This year’s theme: Co-Create Innovative Solutions with Africa, as per the release, underscores the role of collaboration in driving economic growth, stability and social progress.

“For Botswana, the conference aligns with national priorities in economic diversification, human capital development, infrastructure and regional integration under African Continental Free Trade Area,” states the release.

While in Japan, the release says Vice President’s official programme will include; a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister of Japan, Mr Shigeru Ishiba, discussions with the President of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and signing of Memorandum of Understanding with Toyota Group.

The release further states that Mr Gaolathe’s programme will also include; strategic engagements with leading Japanese companies and investors, a high-level bilateral meeting with UNDP leadership and active participation in TICAD plenary sessions and business forums.

Additionally, the release says Mr Gaolathe will also showcase Botswana at the Japan External Trade Organisation Business Expo, promote investment opportunities in priority sectors, including agriculture, healthcare innovation, diamond beneficiation, renewable energy, infrastructure and Information and Communications Technology.

“Through these engagements, Botswana seeks to attract investment, expand trade partnerships, foster skills development and create sustainable jobs. The Vice President is expected back on August 25.

During his absence, the Ministry of Communications and Innovation assistant minister, Mr Shawn Ntlhaile will serve as the Ministry of Finance acting minister. ENDS