Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine how Japanese multinational enterprises (MNEs) contribute to skills development in Africa through interactions with local and home-country institutions, using policy network theory as the analytical lens. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a qualitative research design based on semistructured interviews with Japanese firms, governmental and development agencies and African partner institutions, complemented by secondary data from official documents and reports. Findings The results show that Japanese MNEs engage in resource exchanges with home-country and host-country institutions that lead to the design and implementation of vocational training programs, scholarships and leadership initiatives. These collaborations reduce skills mismatches, enhance employability and strengthen the legitimacy of Japanese firms in African markets. However, challenges persist due to limited government involvement in host countries and cultural differences in partnership dynamics. Research limitations/implications While based primarily on qualitative data, this study highlights conceptual, contextual and methodological limitations, suggesting future comparative research with Chinese and Western MNEs, and the use of mixed methods. Practical implications Findings provide actionable insights for African policymakers to incentivize MNE participation in skills policies and for Japanese firms to align skill-building with corporate strategies and diplomatic frameworks. Social implications The study underscores the potential of international policy networks to promote inclusive workforce development, reducing unemployment and supporting industrial upgrading in Africa. Originality/value The paper extends institutional theory by incorporating policy network theory to explain the cocreation of skills development policies by MNEs and institutional actors, offering a novel perspective on MNEs’ strategic role in host-country development.
ATTA et al. (Tue,) studied this question.