A delegation from the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, is heading to the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), taking place from 20 to 22 August 2025 in Yokohama, Japan.
The delegation will be joined by two other companies- Jendamark and Sovereign Foods.
TICAD 9 is co-hosted by the Government of Japan, the United Nations, UNDP, the African Union Commission, and the World Bank, with the aim of enhancing Africa-Japan relations.
This year’s theme, “Co-create innovative solutions with Africa,” focuses on the importance of inclusive growth, resilience and innovation.
Denise van Huyssteen, CEO of the Chamber said “this is a defining moment for the metro. We are showcasing Nelson Mandela Bay not only as a gateway to Africa, but as a future-focused diverse manufacturing and innovation hub with untapped potential.”
She also said that Japan’s emphasis on technology, youth empowerment and connectivity reflects the goals of the Chamber’s Local Economy Reinvention Think Tank.
Quinton Uren, Managing Director of Jendamark, said “this is a significant milestone. Japan is a high-tech market and we see real potential for exports, joint ventures and innovative partnerships across Asia and Africa.”
Sovereign Foods, one of South Africa’s largest poultry producers, views TICAD 9 as a launchpad into high-value markets such as Japan.
“This is more than a trade mission; it’s about shaping the future of food security,” said Chris Coombes, the company’s CEO.
Picture from left to right: Quinton Uren (Managing Director, Jendamark), Denise van Huyssteen (Chief Executive Officer, Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber) and Chris Coombes (Chief Executive Officer, Sovereign Foods)