Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THE National Gallery of Zimbabwe (NGZ) in Bulawayo has expressed its gratitude to the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) Zimbabwe for assigning Ms Rinako Shirai, a Museology Volunteer, to support curatorial work and cultural programmes at the gallery.
Shirai, who will play a key role in enhancing the gallery’s research, exhibitions, and community outreach, is part of a five-member team from Japan under the Japan Overseas Co-operation Volunteers (JOCVs) programme, working on various development projects across Zimbabwe.
NGZ Bulawayo director, Silenkosi Moyo, emphasised the strategic importance of this initiative, noting that Shirai’s expertise will strengthen the institution’s mission to preserve and promote Zimbabwean art while fostering global cultural exchange.
“A Museology Volunteer such as Rinako Shirai collaborates with us on knowledge exchange and cultural sharing, ultimately enhancing the gallery’s operations. Her work will span curatorial practices, education, and conservation — critical pillars of any modern gallery,” said Moyo.
The NGZ, which is mandated to collect, preserve, and promote works of art in the region, will draw on Shirai’s expertise to improve research on artworks, craft compelling exhibition narratives, and design engaging educational programmes that connect art with the community.
“She will assist in curating immersive exhibitions that resonate with diverse audiences, while contributing to educational programmes that link art to everyday life. This is vital for building appreciation and understanding of both local and global art contexts,” Moyo said.
Beyond exhibitions, Shirai will play a pivotal role in collection management, ensuring best practices in documentation and preservation to safeguard Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage for future generations.
Moyo noted that the volunteer’s presence also represents a two-way cultural exchange, allowing the NGZ team to learn from Japanese museology practices while sharing Zimbabwe’s unique approaches to art and community engagement.
“This role adds long-term value, not only through immediate contributions but also by instilling a culture of continuous learning within our institution. Workshops and training sessions will empower our staff with new skills and global perspectives,” she said.
The gallery has a rich history of partnering with international experts through residency programmes and exhibitions, and this latest collaboration reinforces its commitment to becoming a dynamic hub for art and culture in Southern Africa.
In a statement, JICA Zimbabwe confirmed that the volunteers are undergoing a one-month orientation and local language training in Harare before taking up their roles in mid-September.
Other JOCV participants include Mei Joichi, who will teach music at Midlands State University (MSU); Shunsuke Iguchi, serving as a football coach at MSU; Kotono Mizutani, appointed as a Youth Activity Officer with Young Achievement Sports for Development (YASD); and Hakura Ina, who will contribute as a Business Administration Officer within the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development.
Joichi’s placement at MSU follows an appeal by veteran musician and administrator Edith WeUtonga Katiji, demonstrating the growing synergy between Zimbabwe and Japan in skills development and cultural collaboration.
The NGZ hailed this partnership as a powerful model for cultural diplomacy, reinforcing the idea that art and knowledge exchange can strengthen bonds between nations while advancing local creative industries.
“The collaborative efforts of the Museology Volunteer and gallery staff will lead to a dynamic environment where skills, knowledge, and cultural values are shared, creating a lasting impact on the gallery’s mission and its connection to the community. We are deeply grateful to JICA Zimbabwe, the Ministry of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, and our directorate for making this possible,” said Moyo. – @MbuleloMpofu
