The Yokohama Plan of Action adopted under fifth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD V) in 2013 has centered its priorities on the development of African infrastructure, the growth of its economy and capacity building. To this end, many projects are being implemented on the ground.

In the area of infrastructure development, it was decided at TICAD V to establish 10 master plans for Africa during the 2013 to 2018 period. For West Africa, the plan will be developed around the concept of high-quality infrastructure starting with the so-called West African Growth Ring. The ring is related to the construction of highways linking the landlocked countries to the coast with a view to reducing the negative impact of this geographical handicap, facilitating trade between the countries and boosting economic activities for development. Burkina Faso will fully benefit from it.

In the economic growth sector, the key program was the empowerment of small-scale farmers. Subsequently Burkina Faso and Japan have joined hands to empower the small farmer, boosting their productivity, improving the quality of their products and helping them export overseas. Taking into consideration existing potentials, some products such as sesame, cashews and dried fruit have been selected to benefit from Japanese technical assistance and overseas development assistance. The Japan External Trade Organization is fully involved for market facilitation and some key players are regularly invited to Japan in the framework of FOODEX, which is held every year in Makuhari, Chiba Prefecture. These people are given the opportunity to meet with businesses operating in their sectors while gaining familiarity with Japanese market requirements.