As the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) approached, young leaders from across Africa gathered at the Youth Forum 2025 to ensure health and equity remain central to the agenda. The Forum amplified the impact of the Global Fund, Japan’s leadership, and the importance of advancing gender equality framed within the context of Women’s Month.

The Global Fund has already saved over 50 million lives through its fight against HIV, TB, and malaria.Yet, with global donor fatigue threatening progress, participants underscored the urgency of sustained investments in resilient health systems. Speakers commended Japan’s long-standing partnership with the Global Fund, affirming that TICAD is a pivotal opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen this leadership.

A highlight of the Forum was an interactive session where youth co-created advocacy messages for TICAD. Using real time digital tools, participants crafted messages centered on partnership, youth empowerment, and gender equity. They expressed gratitude for Japan’s support while calling for a shared vision and collaboration to secure Africa’s future.

The Forum’s resonance was deepened by Women’s Month, spotlighting the disproportionate health challenges faced  by adolescent girls and young women. These women  remain both vulnerable and disproportionately affected by health challenges yet they are the  key drivers of resilience and progress.

The outputs from the Youth Forum including youth crafted advocacy messages  were shared online and amplified during The Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) held in Yokohama on 20th–22nd August 2025.

 “Investing in health means investing in women and girls and in Africa’s future.”