KCCP Participants meet with the JICA President at the Osaka Expo 2025!

World Expo, Osaka Expo 2025 is currently underway in Osaka, Kansai, Japan, from April 13 to October 13, 2025. Zimbabwe had its National Day on July 16, 2025, and on the sidelines of this special day, a memorable gathering took place. Two PhD students from the Knowledge Co-Creation Program (Long term program), Ms. Hilda Manditsvara and Mr. Savemore Ngirazi pursuing their studies under the JICA Agri-net scholarship program, alongside two short-term participants – Ms. Prisca Mungani, attending a course on Development of Core Agricultural Researcher for Promotion of Rice Production and Mr. Philemon Mutema attending a course on Market Oriented Agriculture Promotion for Extension Officer in Africa had the privilege of meeting two notable figures.

The participants were honoured to meet the well-renowned Rice Expert, Dr. Tatsushi Tsuboi, who conducted a pivotal survey on NERICA rice production in Zimbabwe back in 2006/7. Dr. Tsuboi later introduced rice production in Zimbabwe in 2023, further contributing to the growth of agricultural practices in the country. Adding to the significance of the meetup, was the opportunity for these participants to connect with JICA President, Dr. Akihiko Tanaka. Such interactions not only enrich the learning experience of these students but also open doors for future collaborations and growth in agricultural development in Zimbabwe.

Pictured from left: Mr. Philemon Mutema, Ms. Hilda Manditsvara, Mr. Savemore Ngirazi, Ms. Prisca Mungani, Dr. Tatsushi Tsuboi, and Dr. Akihiko Tanaka.