This paper re-examines the reactive vs. proactive debate on Japan's foreign policy in light of the shifting relationship between the country and Africa since the end of the Cold War. It is argued that Japan has been following a more dynamic, independent, and assertive foreign policy than has heretofore been acknowledged, reflected in its involvement in multilateral and other initiatives such as TICAD and NEPAD. A desire to raise its international profile and to position itself as a global middle power underlies this. Notwithstanding, this proactivism and middlepowership towards Africa is incomplete and self-serving.