Japan pledges to double Africa aid during TICAD, explores investment opportunities

"As Africa seeks to achieve its own Green Revolution, I would like to put out a call for action aiming to double the current rice production output of 14 million tonnes over the next 10 years," he said, adding, "We are deeply concerned that many African countries are seeing great difficulty as a result of the recent sharp rise in food prices."

A significant portion of Japan's recently promised emergency food assistance package equivalent to $100 million would be provided to Africa, Fukuda said.

"With a wealth of agricultural experience, Japan is willing to cooperate with countries and international organizations to develop irrigation systems, improve the varieties of crops raised and foster workers in the field of agriculture," the prime minister said.

Japan would also train 100,000 people in health care over the next five years in Africa, where there is a shortage of 1.5 million health workers, Fukuda said.

The African leaders have welcomed Japan's commitment to help develop ties with Africa.

"Essentially, we believe that Africa's future growth lies in trade, not aid," said Thabo Mbeki, President of South Africa.