Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba [email protected]
THE Japanese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Maekawa Nobutaka, has pledged to strengthen cooperation between Japan and Gweru through business partnerships and sister-city arrangements, describing the Midlands capital as strategically important to Zimbabwe’s economy.
Ambassador Nobutaka visited Gweru City Council earlier this week for talks with senior council officials on potential areas of collaboration.
Discussions were centred on trade, investment and cultural exchange opportunities that could benefit both Japan and the city.
“We see great potential in building practical partnerships that can create jobs, transfer skills and promote mutual understanding between our peoples,” said Ambassador.
He added that Japan was keen to deepen ties at local government level, noting that sister-city relationships had proved effective in fostering long-term cooperation elsewhere.
“We want sister-to-sister and business marriage relationships between Japanese cities and Gweru,” said Amb Nobutaka.
City officials have welcomed the initiative, describing it as the start of a promising chapter in bilateral cooperation.
Gweru Mayor, Councillor Martin Chivhoko, said the city was open to collaborations across several key sectors.
“We are open for collaborations from water security to schools, tourism, and farms,” he said.
Clr Chivhoko indicated that Gweru was ready to support partnerships that would drive industrial growth, urban development and skills transfer in line with the city’s development agenda.
Town Clerk Mr Livingston Churu highlighted smart city development, housing and green energy as Gweru’s major focus areas that could benefit from international cooperation.
“These are priority areas where partnerships can deliver tangible results for residents,” Mr Churu said.
Gweru Chamber Secretary Mr Owen Masimba encouraged Japanese investors and stakeholders to explore opportunities within the city.
“Feel free to explore cooperation. We can facilitate business for you,” he said.
No formal agreements were signed during the visit, but both sides agreed to explore concrete projects and exchange proposals in the coming months.
The engagement is expected to pave the way for stronger economic and cultural ties between Japan and Gweru, potentially unlocking new investment and development opportunities for the Midlands city.
