Japan's military expansion and its risks to the Global South
via NewsDay Zimbabwe9 min read
In 2026, Japan formally repealed its nearly eight-decade ban on lethal arms exports, marking a significant shift from its postwar pacifist framework. This transformation, fueled by increasing defense budgets and constitutional revision efforts, is turning Japan into a military actor capable of long-range power projection and mass arms exports. While often framed as a response to regional security concerns, this military rearmament is seen by Africa and the broader Global South as a proactive strategic choice tied to the US-led Indo-Pacific hegemonic architecture. Its effects extend to Africa through resource, aid, and defense cooperation, posing long-term security and developmental risks. Japan's 2026 defense budget reached 9.04 trillion yen, aiming for 2 percent of its GDP, with massive funding for next-generation fighter jets, long-range cruise missiles, and offshore naval vessels. This expansion is supported by the United States, which has loosened Japan's military constraints to offset Indo-Pacific defense costs. NATO's integration with Japan through the Global Combat Air Programme further signifies cross-regional military bloc polarization. The article argues that the regional military escalation is driven by Japan's offensive military expansion and America's forward military deployment, rather than a mutual security dilemma. Japan's arms exports to Southeast Asian nations are fueling military proliferation and escalating maritime tensions. This military resurgence also
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by NewsDay Zimbabwe.
Afreximbank's digital ecosystem has enabled a Zimbabwean firm to secure a landmark US$5.3 million fuel deal. This initiative aims to expand access to trade finance, allowing more businesses to participate in regional and international trade. The development highlights how digital platforms are streamlining trade processes and fostering greater economic engagement across borders.
Must ReadZimbabwe has commissioned a specialized honey testing laboratory to enhance its export competitiveness. This development comes as the country also focuses on El Ni帽o preparedness, with ARDA delivering 120,000MT. Other news includes a parliamentary committee recommending a commission of inquiry into the Hwange governance dispute, proposed new grain levies to address climate and food security risks, and Econet launching XtraData Bundles. ART operations have been affected by power outages and raw material shortages, leading to a decline in export and paper division volumes in the third quarter to June 2022.
Must ReadA US envoy has stated that the rule of law and policy certainty are crucial for attracting investment to Zimbabwe. This comes amidst various local developments, including Econet launching new data bundles, ARDA delivering 120,000 metric tons of produce as Zimbabwe prepares for El Ni帽o, and proposed new grain levies to address climate and food security risks. Other news includes political tensions leading to violence, power outages and raw material shortages affecting ART operations, and the commissioning of a specialized honey testing laboratory to boost export competitiveness.