Japan is pledging $2 billion for energy and mineral projects in Africa , capping a conference with government resource officials from across the continent as it seeks to catch up with years of Chinese investment.

Japan needs to secure long-term reliable sources of natural materials. It is also eager to provide its technologies to build roads, railways and utilities, offering a competitive alternative to Chinese state-owned companies that have helped China become Africa 's dominant investor.

The Japanese government funding will be used for direct loans, underwriting of debt offerings and equity stakes in projects covering crude oil, natural gas, coal and minerals over the next five years.

"This conference has put in place the building blocks to encourage investment from Japanese companies and to help create Africa's sustainable growth," Toshimitsu Motegi, minister of economy, trade and industry, said at a Saturday news conference after a meeting with representatives from 15 African countries that followed the two-day conference.

Japan put together the conference in the hope of demonstrating the appeal of the long-term approach typical of Japanese companies. Many African countries have begun to complain about what they see as the heavy-handed approach of China 's investments.

Delegates to the conference appeared receptive to the overtures. John Bande, minister of mining for Malawi, said he had expressions of interest ranging from trading companies such as Marubeni Corp. to auto maker Toyota Motor Corp.

Attendees said the Japanese overture was welcome and that the continent's dependence on China was because of necessity, not necessarily by choice.

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