Date: Monday, March 3, 2025

 The African market is undeniably recognized for its growth potential. However, the barriers to entry are also significant. To minimize business risks and establish a sustainable foundation, building trust with local communities is crucial. This requires viewing Africa not merely as a market but as a partner, demonstrating tangible contributions to its nations, and sharing a vision of hope for the future with its people.

This seminar will highlight the diverse activities of Japanese companies at the forefront of African business, addressing real social issues on the ground. We are confident that this seminar will provide strategic insights for considering entry scenarios into Africa and other developing countries. We sincerely invite you to join us.

[Seminar Overview]

 

1. Opening Remarks 13:30 - 13:40
   　Yoko Takahashi, Chairperson, Japan Philanthropic Association

 

2. Keynote Presentation 13:40 - 14:10

Growth Potential of the African Market and Key Success Factors for Japanese Companies
Kenichi Taneya, President & CEO, SAINT PARTS Co., Ltd.
 

After leaving Yano Research Institute, Mr. Taneya established a sales base for used car parts in Tanzania in 2015, expanding into parts sales and automobile maintenance services. In 2022, he launched the household goods shop "KOMONOYA." Through the essential role of “automobiles” in local daily life, he has built networks with various sectors, not only within the Japanese community but also with local stakeholders. Mr. Taneya is one of the most knowledgeable business leaders about the real “now” of Africa.

 

3. Case Studies 14:10 - 15:40

Local Initiatives by Japanese Companies: Activities and Strategic Insights

 

• SoftBank Corp.

Motoi Matsumoto, Director, Ubiquitous Network Planning Department, Product Technology Division, Technology Unit,

Collaborating with the Rwandan government, SoftBank is working on building a sustainable internet service platform using stratospheric communication technology. Our business model focuses on bridging the digital divide and transferring benefits to impoverished communities.

 

• Borderless Tanzania Limited
  Moana Kikuchi, President, LUNA Sanitary Products
   

To create employment opportunities for single mothers who left school due to early pregnancies, our company manufactures and sells sanitary napkins in Tanzania. Working in collaboration with international organizations such as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), we provide free sanitary napkins and sex education, fostering an environment where female students can continue their education.

 

• LIXIL Corporation
  Suguru Sakata, Asia Regional Leader, SATO Division
   

Globally, approximately 3.5 billion people lack access to safely managed sanitation facilities, toilets, and about 410 million of them defecate in the open on a daily basis.

LIXIL’s SATO business contributes to the realization of healthier and comfortable living environments by providing innovative and affordable toilet and handwashing solutions for developing countries where adequate sanitation facilities are lacking.

 

• Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
  Isao Shibata, Chief Staff Member, Sustainability Promotion Department

Since 2001, Sumitomo Chemical has contributed to malaria prevention through the distribution of Olyset® Net, a WHO-recommended mosquito net for malaria control, while supporting community-led initiatives to address social challenges. Our efforts include building schools, expanding girls' education, and more recently, supporting STEM and environmental education to help build self-reliant communities.

 

　　4.  Panel Discussion 15:50 - 16:40
　　　Facilitator: Takashi Mizukoshi, President & CEO, Yano Research Institute Ltd.

We will engage in an exchange of opinions with our case study presenters regarding the achievements and challenges of their activities to date. Additionally, we will deepen our discussion on how Japanese companies can effectively engage with Africa.

 

5. Q&A Session 16:40 - 17:00

 

[Seminar Outline]

 

Seminar Title

Latest Trends in the African Market: Exploring New Frontiers in Social Contribution and Business Led by Japanese Companies

 

Date and Time

13:30–17:00 (Doors open at 13:00), Monday, March 3, 2025
 

Venue

Sanguryo, Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd.
4-1-3 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 151-0053
TEL: 03-3320-3994
1-minute walk from the Odakyu Line’s Sangubashi Station.

 

Participation Fee (Tax Included)

• General: ¥7,000
• Members of Japan Philanthropic Association (corporate/individual): ¥3,000
• Members of Yano Data Bank (YDB): ¥3,000

Capacity

　　70 participants (Registration will close once capacity is reached.)

 

Registration

•  Registration - General
•  Registration - Members of Japan Philanthropic Association
•  Registration - Members of Yano Data Bank (YDB)

 

Registration Deadline

　　17:00, Friday, February 28, 2025

Co-Organizers

Japan Philanthropic Association

Website: www.philanthropy.or.jp

Yano Research Institute Ltd.

Website: www.yano.co.jp

Contact Information for Registration

Customer Center, Yano Research Institute Ltd.
TEL: 03-5371-6901

Payment Instructions

After your registration is confirmed, an invoice will be sent by post. Please complete your payment either by the day prior to the seminar or within one week of receiving the invoice.

Cancellation Policy

　Refunds and cancellations are not accepted after payment has been made. 　However, if the registered participant is unable to attend, a substitute 　attendee may participate.

For more details, please refer to the Japanese page.