Press Seminar on TICAD 9 and Japan’s Development Cooperation
2025/8/19
On 19th August 2025—the eve of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9), which the Government of Japan hosts in Yokohama from 20th to 22nd August, the JICA Zambia Office hosted a seminar for the Zambian media.
With the aim of building stronger relationships with local media and encouraging accurate reporting, the seminar introduced the history of Japan’s development cooperation through JICA, key milestones and Zambia’s relations with TICAD. The event was attended by key media outlets and also Mrs. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia.
In his opening remarks, Mr. TATEYAMA Jotaro, Chief Representative of the JICA Zambia Office, emphasized that TICAD 9 is not merely an investment forum but a comprehensive development platform to support Zambia’s economic structural transformation. He underscored the importance of long-term and co-creative partnerships through “quality infrastructure” projects such as the Nacala Corridor development, and called upon the media to help convey its significance widely.
Ambassador TAKEUCHI Kazuyuki highlighted the long-standing cooperation between Japan and Zambia, highlighting achievements in a wide range of fields, including education, health and agriculture. He also underlined the importance of TICAD 9, and called upon the media to play a vital role in promoting sustainable development through accurate and constructive coverage.
Permanent Secretary Mrs. Gundersen emphasized that Japanese development cooperation has contributed to Zambia’s sustainable growth, reaffirming Zambia’s commitment to continue and further strengthen close collaboration with Japan.
Ms. OZAWA Nobue, First Secretary of the Embassy, delivered a presentation outlining the history of TICAD since its launch in 1993, the significance of TICAD for Africa, including Zambia, as well as the importance of strengthening cooperation with Africa in the current international situation.
Mr. IZUMI Keita, Senior Representative of the JICA Zambia Office, presented JICA’s multi-sectoral development cooperation activities to date, including the work of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, and provided specific examples of future prospects, such as the Lusaka Metropolitan Area Development Plan and the Nacala Corridor development.
During the Q&A session, media participants raised a wide range of questions and comments, including updates on the Lusaka Metropolitan Area Development Plan, support for SMEs and rural areas, and prospects for energy diversification support, demonstrating a high level of interest in TICAD and Japan’s cooperation.
The seminar provided a meaningful opportunity to share the achievements and future possibility of Japan–Zambia cooperation ahead of TICAD 9.
To read the speech by Ambassador Takeuchi, please click here.