Zim, Japan relations boost for economic growth

Ashley Mujoma

Japan’s country development cooperation policy for Zimbabwe will continue to focus on support for sustainable economic growth and socioeconomic transformation, the country’s ambassador to Zimbabwe, Satoshi Tanaka, has said.

Ambassador Tanaka made the remarks at the final seminar on Community-Based Tourism held yesterday by the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry in partnership with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to enthusiastically work together in doing projects.

He said Japan will always be there to help Zimbabwe in all facets of the economy.

“Japan will continue to provide assistance to Zimbabwe in all facets of the economy to ensure mutual befit and development in a sustainable manner.

“One of the pillars of Japan’s cooperation with Zimbabwe is tourism development. For example, we are currently helping to promote Victoria Falls as a top tourist destination through the International Finance Corporation, a member of the World Bank Group.

“And, of course, we are also supporting this JICA Community-Based Tourism or CBT project.”

He said the two countries should join hands as a way of promoting tourism because tourism is a key that can provide a lot of benefits with relatively little investment.

“Zimbabwe has a lot of beautiful scenery, as well as fascinating cultures and a rich history. JICA Community-Based Tourism or CBT project has multiple benefits since it allows tourists to experience another side of Zimbabwe that is much richer and deeper than simply seeing a tourist site,” he said.

The ambassador said tourism will promote interaction between tourists and members of the community.

“The interaction will see tourists experiencing fascinating art and culture, and enable them to learn rich Zimbabwean history, while at the same time appreciating the beautiful natural surroundings.

“And for the communities, it will not only provide economic and employment opportunities, but it will also allow them to preserve their natural and cultural heritage,” he said.