Speech Transcripts

His Excellency Moussa Faki Muhamat, Chairperson of the AU Commission,
Ms. Bience Gawanas, United Nations Under-Secretary General and Special Adviser on Africa,
Mr. Filippo Grandi, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees,
Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

UNHCR estimates that more than 70 million people were forcibly displaced around the world in 2018 because of war, conflict or persecution. This is the highest figure ever recorded since the World War II. The African continent is a major source of refugees and Internally Displaced Persons ("IDPs"), as well as one of their main destinations. We should not overlook this reality. It is imperative that we take strong and immediate actions to address it.

JICA has long demonstrated its robust commitment to the promotion of "Human Security." Mrs. Sadako Ogata, former JICA President and UN High Commissioner for Refugees, was deeply involved in advancing "Human Security." As Japan's premier international cooperation agency, we take pride in our nearly 20-year long history on the frontlines of "Human Security."

Let me now raise two important points from JICA's unique perspective.

First, I would like to discuss the significance of self-reliance. All human beings have the right to live with dignity. This is the core essence of "Human Security," and members of the international community must uphold this right. To this end, we have to support the journey of humanity toward self-reliance so that all human beings can live with pride. In Uganda, JICA provides rice production training to South Sudanese refugees, building their skills and capacity so that they can support themselves. JICA also works with local governments in Uganda by enhancing their planning and budgeting capacity to host refugees as part of inclusive development programs. Additionally, JICA works together with host governments to address essential infrastructure needs.

Second, let me draw attention to the importance of reconciliation processes. Refugees and IDPs are victims of divided societies. Promoting "Trust Building" and fomenting a "Culture of Reconciliation" are indispensable steps to empowering refugees and IDPs to return home to create inclusive and conflict-free societies. In South Sudan, JICA has supported National Unity Day Sports Events since 2016. Through these events, people in South Sudan, including refugees and IDPs, develop a sense of mutual respect. They also see beyond ethnic differences, cultivating harmony and a sense of national unity.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In closing, I wish to remind everyone that no single country or organization can solve refugee and conflict issues alone. Members of the international community must come together in support of those willing to create peaceful and harmonious societies. We must also enhance local "ownership" of peace and reconciliation processes by strengthening our solidarity efforts. To guarantee not only a bright and peaceful future for Africa, but also a sustainable future for humanity, we must act now, as responsible members of the international community, to turn the tide on forced displacement in Africa and beyond.

Thank you.