Tanzania and Japan Celebrate 60 Years of Productive Cooperation

The government of Tanzania and Japan have marked 60 years of cooperation through the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) program, which has brought significant benefits to various sectors in Tanzania. The program has enabled over 1,700 Japanese volunteers to work in Tanzania, providing expertise in fields such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and engineering. These volunteers have served in schools, hospitals, and communities, particularly in areas with a shortage of professionals.

According to Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Elijah Mwandumbya, the cooperation between Tanzania and Japan has contributed substantially to the country's development. He noted that each sector that has benefited from the program has experienced increased efficiency, with volunteers leaving behind valuable skills and expertise. The program has also facilitated the transfer of knowledge and skills, improving service delivery to citizens.

In addition to the JOCV program, Tanzania has benefited from Japan's development cooperation through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). This cooperation has included concessional loans exceeding 147.3 billion Yen (approximately 2.46 trillion Tanzanian shillings) and grants exceeding 176.76 billion Yen (approximately 2.96 trillion Tanzanian shillings). Over 22,000 Tanzanians have benefited from technical assistance and training provided by Japan.

Japanese Ambassador to Tanzania, Yoichi Mikami, stated that the JOCV program has strengthened the relationship between the people of Tanzania and Japan. He cited examples of former volunteers who have continued to promote friendship between the two countries after returning to Japan. The ambassador noted that volunteers not only share their expertise but also learn from Tanzanians and build lasting relationships with the communities they serve.

Hiroyuki Kobayashi, Deputy President of JICA, emphasized that the program will continue to enhance human resource development and relations between Tanzania and Japan. He stated that the program's contributions support the implementation of Tanzania's National Development Vision 2050. The cooperation between Japan and Tanzania extends beyond infrastructure projects to include human capacity development and social development.

Dr. Kuge Katsuya, Resident Representative of JICA in Tanzania, highlighted that 757 volunteers have been deployed to areas that align with the priorities of Tanzania's National Development Vision 2050, including science, mathematics, education, and computer technology. These volunteers have also contributed to sectors such as education, agriculture, nursing, and sports, working in collaboration with local government authorities and communities.

Regional Administration Secretary of Pwani Region, Richard Kayombo, on behalf of regional administration secretaries across Tanzania, expressed gratitude to the Japanese government and JICA for their contributions to education, healthcare, and infrastructure. He noted that citizens have benefited from learning languages, skills, and techniques through interactions with Japanese volunteers and encouraged continued cooperation to benefit more citizens.

Key points

• Over 1,700 Japanese volunteers have worked in Tanzania, contributing to sectors such as education, healthcare, and agriculture.