From a business perspective, this book offers suggestions on how to engage with Africa and the future of Japan-Africa relations.

Kenta Omori, Executive Vice President of STANDAGE Co., Ltd. (Minato-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Akinori Adachi; hereinafter referred to as STANDAGE), a company that develops and provides digital trade platforms, took the stage at Panel 3, "The Future of TICAD," of the TICAD 30th Anniversary Commemorative Event, "TICAD's 30-Year History and Outlook - The Significance of TICAD and the Future of Japan-Africa Relations," hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on August 26th (Saturday).

TICAD (Tokyo International Conference on African Development) was established in 1993 and celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. This event was held to commemorate this milestone, to look back on TICAD's history, and to discuss the future of TICAD and Japan-Africa relations.

The opening address included a video message from Prime Minister Kishida, and the event was attended by approximately 400 people from various sectors who share a common connection to Africa, including former Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori, Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, members of parliament, representatives from African embassies in Japan, academia, and private companies.

In addition, three panel discussions were held within the program, featuring panelists from various sectors of government and industry who engaged in a lively exchange of opinions on TICAD's 30-year history and its future.

Omori participated in Panel 3, "The Future of TICAD," alongside House of Representatives member Takako Suzuki, UNDP Assistant Administrator and Director of the Africa Bureau Afna Ezakonwa, and Sasakawa Africa Foundation Chairman Masato Kitachū. From the perspective of businesspeople involved in trade with Africa, they discussed the role TICAD should play in the future and a "Japanese-style" approach.

During the discussion, he emphasized that Africa is a very attractive field for business and the need to spread awareness of this. He then delivered a powerful message to the participating students, saying, "Seeing is believing. I want you to go to Africa tonight and see what's happening there with your own eyes."

Standage will continue to contribute to the development of Japan-Africa relations and the creation of new value through trade with the African region.