The Japanese ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ogawa Hidetoshi, led a mission to Kisangani, in the north-east of the country, to provide assistance to vulnerable populations affected by conflicts. The mission is part of a long-standing cooperation between Japan and the United Nations Joint Office for Human Rights (BCNUDH). The assistance aims to provide support to internally displaced persons, victims of human rights abuses, and those facing insecurity.
Ambassador Ogawa stated that the objective of the visit is to follow up on and support populations in difficult situations, particularly those who have been displaced, victims of human rights abuses, and those facing insecurity. He emphasized that Japan's action is based on the principle of human security, which prioritizes the protection, dignity, and well-being of individuals. The ambassador also highlighted that the second pillar of this cooperation focuses on the "women, peace, and security" dimension.
The cooperation between Japan and the BCNUDH aims to provide assistance and survival kits to populations affected by vulnerability. The ambassador stressed that this cooperation is built on two principles: human security and the "women, peace, and security" dimension. These principles guide Japan's support to vulnerable populations, particularly women and girls.
The governor of Tshopo, Paulin Lendongolia, welcomed the Japanese ambassador's visit, describing it as an important opportunity for the province. He expressed hope that the visit would pave the way for future projects that the Japanese embassy could support. The governor also praised the Japanese embassy's support for the project, saying it was a crucial element in the initiative to help vulnerable populations.
After meeting with the provincial authority, Ambassador Ogawa and the director of the BCNUDH, Patrice Vahard, presented the mission to members of the provincial security committee. The mission's activities were set to begin on Friday. The presentation highlighted the importance of the cooperation between Japan and the BCNUDH in supporting vulnerable populations.
The assistance provided by Japan aims to address the needs of populations affected by conflicts in the Tshopo province. The province has been facing insecurity and humanitarian challenges, including the presence of internally displaced persons. The Japanese mission's visit is expected to help alleviate some of these challenges.
The visit by Ambassador Ogawa and the BCNUDH director demonstrates the commitment of Japan and the international community to supporting vulnerable populations in the DRC. The cooperation between Japan and the BCNUDH is expected to continue, with a focus on providing assistance to those affected by conflicts and promoting human security.
Key points
- Japan provides assistance to vulnerable populations in Tshopo, DRC, as part of its cooperation with the United Nations Joint Office for Human Rights.
