Japan-Africa Entertainment Business Council Launched to Foster Creativity and Collaboration

Celebrating the Launch of the Japan-Africa Entertainment Business Council (JAEBC)

On November 10, 2025, amid a vibrant atmosphere in Shibuya, Tokyo, the Japan-Africa Entertainment Business Council, or JAEBC, was officially inaugurated. This non-profit platform, initiated by dedicated proponents, strives to strengthen the ties between Japan and Africa's entertainment sectors, facilitating sustainable business creation and promoting strategic investments.

The operation of the Council is overseen by Stage Bank Co., Ltd. based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, under the leadership of CEO Reio Suga. With around 80 attendees, including representatives from entertainment companies, media, government agencies, trading firms, advertising agencies, and investors, the launch event aimed to showcase the flourishing prospects of African content and its growing influence on global markets.

Background: Africa as the Next Cultural Epicenter

In recent years, Africa has witnessed an unprecedented growth surge in its creative industries, including music, film, animation, and fashion. High-profile collaborations, such as Disney's partnership with Kugali Media for the animation 'Iwaju,' have gained global traction, while Afrobeat from Nigeria continues to dominate the U.S. Billboard charts. Major global players like Universal Music, Netflix, and Canal+ have also started investing and building partnerships with local studios.

As Western entertainment industries increasingly view Africa as the next big market and cultural hub, Japan's animation, manga, and gaming industries stand out for their recognition yet remain somewhat disconnected from the African market. However, given the swift proliferation of smartphones across Africa and the youthful demography with the median age of just 19, there’s an explosive potential for content consumption that Japanese companies cannot afford to miss out on.

Establishment of JAEBC: Bridging Japan and Africa

The idea for the JAEBC took root during the TICAD9 (Tokyo International Conference on African Development) held in August 2025, where discussions among key African entertainment players and Japanese firms emphasized the need for continued collaboration. Recognizing a critical gap in bridging the Japanese and African entertainment industries, the founders were inspired to establish the JAEBC.

Key Functions of JAEBC: The Co-Creation Infrastructure

JAEBC aims to provide Japanese companies with essential resources and support to engage effectively with Africa's entertainment landscape:

1. Monthly Newsletter: Members will receive exclusive insights on the latest trends in African music, film, animation, gaming, and sports entertainment, coupled with investment opportunities and partner information.

2. Exclusive Networking Events: The Council plans to host quarterly seminars and meet-ups featuring guests from Africa and beyond.

3. Local Business Tours: An annual business tour will be arranged, allowing members to visit leading companies, studios, and music labels in Africa.

4. Executive Strategy Dialogues: Twice a year, strategic dialogues will be held to assist executives in formulating long-term business strategies for entering the African market.

5. Youth Organization Initiatives: A youth organization focused on university students will operate on both sides, facilitating communication with local young fans, fostering real-time responses to Japanese content, and nurturing the next generation of talent.

Insights from the Launch Event

Feedback from participants at the launch event highlighted the significance of African industry transformation: "I felt the impact of Africa's industrial revolution. The importance of Japanese entry into this market became clear to me," said one participant, emphasizing the collective drive towards practical business alliances.

The Founders and their Vision

The Council is led by several prominent figures, including:

- Yoshi Shinda: A seasoned professional with over 11 years in Nigeria, leading investments in African infrastructure and energy development.
- Reio Suga: CEO of Stage Bank, with a strong background in brand management and marketing in Asia and Africa.
- Aoi Narita: With comprehensive insights into Africa’s entertainment, she continues to play a significant role in the council.
- Yuki Torii: As the CEO of Peace Co., Ltd., he focuses on connecting creative industries in Japan and Africa.

Future Directions for JAEBC

As JAEBC continues its efforts to create a robust foundation for Japanese companies to access the African market, the call for membership will be extended to foster a collaborative ethos that nurtures new cultural values and industries between the two regions.