The Tokyo Innovation Base (TIB) became the epicenter of a groundbreaking conversation about Africa’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. The hybrid event, aptly named the “Meet the Toshikas” Startup Investment Summit, brought together a global audience, bridging Tokyo to Angola, South Africa, Zambia, and beyond. With 200 attendees—including 148 online participants and 49 on-site guests from 28 countries—the event defied an incoming typhoon to spotlight Africa’s innovation-driven future.
A Platform for Opportunity
Hosted in collaboration with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the summit aimed to foster investment and collaboration between African and Japanese ecosystems. It began with opening remarks from METI and UNDP representatives, setting the tone for a day rich in innovation, dialogue, and opportunity.
Six ambitious African startups took the stage, delivering compelling pitches that caught the attention of Japanese venture capital heavyweights like Samurai Incubate Africa and TSI Japan. The ensuing Q&A sessions provided a deeper dive into the innovative solutions these startups are championing. 
Africa Meets Japan: Bridging Ecosystems
One of the most engaging moments was a panel discussion featuring investors and accelerators from Angola, South Africa, and Zambia, alongside representatives from NEC Japan. Together, they shared their experiences and strategies for fostering innovation in Africa, highlighting success stories and addressing challenges.
For many participants, the summit was an eye-opener:
- “This was my first time learning about the advanced initiatives of African startups,” remarked a Japanese attendee.
- Another participant noted, “The networking opportunities were invaluable, and I left inspired by the diverse perspectives.”
- A global investor commented, “The expertise of African accelerators was truly impressive—it’s clear they are driving significant change.”
A Lasting Impact
The event’s success wasn’t just measured by attendance but by the connections and collaborations it inspired. With rave reviews pouring in, the summit underscored the untapped potential of Africa’s startup scene and its capacity to shape the global innovation narrative.
For those who missed the live event, the highlights and discussions will soon be available on UNDP’s YouTube channel, extending the summit’s reach and ensuring Africa’s story continues to resonate worldwide.
Building Momentum for Africa
As Africa emerges as a global hub for innovation, UNDP remains committed to nurturing startups and strengthening ecosystems across the continent. The “Meet the Toshikas” summit was more than an event—it was a rallying cry for global investors and innovators to take notice of Africa’s ingenuity and resilience.
Stay tuned for the live stream video and updates on how Africa and Japan continue to drive forward a new era of innovation.
This summit wasn’t just a showcase—it was a celebration of Africa’s trailblazing visionaries ready to redefine what’s possible on the global stage.
