TICAD: A Partner or a Partnership Problem?

Abstract

This chapter asks whether TICAD’s primary concern is a ‘partner problem’, that is insufficient dialogue between stakeholders to strengthen the linkage between the dual principles of ‘ownership’ and ‘partnership’ or ‘a partnership problem’ arising from assertive Southern development partnerships. It is both. If TICAD players’ different approaches converge through strengthening African ownership and decision-making through Japan’s supporting partnership, positive outcomes would increase stakeholders’ expectations, thus reversing the tension between TICAD and Asian donors.