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Zambia and Japan share a friendship that began at the time of Zambia's independence in 1964. Over the past six decades, our two countries have built a strong partnership founded on shared values of peace, democracy, and sustainable development. Throughout this period, JICA has worked alongside the Government and people of Zambia across a wide range of sectors, including infrastructure, agriculture, education, health, and water and sanitation.
Wherever I travel in Zambia, I am struck by the warmth with which people speak about the relationship between our two countries. Many remember not only the projects themselves, but also the friendships and trust built through decades of cooperation. These connections have become an important foundation of the Zambia-Japan partnership.
Over the years, our cooperation has contributed to the development of both people and institutions. Long-standing support to the University of Zambia School of Veterinary Medicine has helped strengthen veterinary education and research capacity in the region. Water and sanitation improvements in communities such as George Compound have enhanced the lives of many residents. In education, Japan has supported school construction and improvements in the quality of learning. Major infrastructure investments, including the Kafue and Kazungula bridges and support for One Stop Border Posts, have strengthened connectivity, trade, and regional integration across Southern Africa. Equally important, more than 1,600 Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers have worked alongside Zambian communities over the years, sharing skills, building relationships, and contributing to local development in areas ranging from education and health to agriculture and vocational training. Their dedication has fostered lasting friendship and mutual understanding between the people of Zambia and Japan.
Importantly, Zambia is not only a beneficiary of development cooperation, but also an important contributor to regional progress. From trade facilitation and transport corridors to public health, education, and agriculture, Zambia increasingly serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and experience across the region. JICA is proud to support Zambia's growing role as a regional hub for learning, innovation, and cooperation.
Zambia is widely recognized as one of Africa's most peaceful and stable democracies. Since independence, it has upheld a tradition of peaceful coexistence and regional solidarity, including its long-standing commitment to hosting refugees from neighbouring countries. Equally remarkable is its ability to maintain unity amidst diversity. Home to more than seventy ethnic groups and rich cultural traditions, the nation continues to be guided by the enduring principle of "One Zambia, One Nation." The openness, tolerance, and friendliness of the Zambian people are among the country's greatest strengths.
Zambia is also a country of immense opportunity. Blessed with abundant agricultural potential, significant mineral resources including copper and cobalt, extraordinary natural beauty, and a strategic location at the heart of Southern Africa, the country is well positioned to play an even greater role in the continent's future development. At the same time, challenges such as economic diversification, climate resilience, rapid urbanisation, quality education, improved healthcare, and job creation remain important priorities.
JICA remains committed to supporting Zambia's efforts to address these challenges. Across all sectors, our focus is not only on infrastructure and services, but also on strengthening the people, institutions, and systems that make development sustainable. Guided by the principle of Human Security, we believe that lasting progress is achieved when development is locally owned, inclusive, and driven by the aspirations of the people themselves.
Among Zambia's many strengths, however, I believe its greatest asset is its people. Throughout my time in Zambia, I have been inspired by the resilience, optimism, and determination of Zambians from all walks of life. Their energy and commitment give every reason for confidence in the country's future.
The spirit of "One Zambia, One Nation" resonates strongly with JICA's commitment to inclusive development that leaves no one behind. Building on more than sixty years of friendship and cooperation between Zambia and Japan, JICA Zambia Office will continue to work hand in hand with the people and Government of Zambia, as well as with development partners, civil society, academia, and the private sector, to help create a more resilient, prosperous, and inclusive future.
Tomoko Ono
Chief Representative
JICA Zambia Office