Originally posted by the Voice of America. Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America, a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in the public domain. Japan to Invest Billions in Africa International investment dollars are continuing to pour into Africa. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe announced a $32 billion pledge Saturday during the start of the three-day Tokyo International Conference on African Development. Abe says the investment of public and private funds over the next five years is aimed at helping growth on the continent and encouraging Japanese companies to invest there. Japan is trying to keep catch up with China, which has been investing heavily in Africa. Prime Minister Abe began targeting Africa for investments opportunities shortly after taking office last year. Around 50 African leaders are in Tokyo for the conference, covering economic development and concerns over peace and security in the region. __________________________________________________________________ [1]http://www.voanews.com/content/japan-to-invest-billions-in-africa/16 73171.html References 1. http://www.voanews.com/content/japan-to-invest-billions-in-africa/1673171.html