The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Ghana has reaffirmed its commitment to Ghana’s development by focusing on critical projects in infrastructure, agriculture, and community development.
Ms. Suzuki Momoko, Chief Representative of JICA Ghana, 3emphasized the significance of these initiatives in a recent media engagement on Wednesday.
Completion of the Tema Motorway Project
One of the major milestones highlighted was the successful completion of the Tema Motorway Expansion Project, a decade-long endeavor spanning two phases.
Phase one was constructed from 2018 to 2020, while phase two, which utilized low-maintenance technology, was completed between 2022 and 2024.
According to Ms. Momoko, this technology ensures that Ghana will not have to incur high maintenance costs in the future.
“Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, phase one was completed on schedule. The quality of work is commendable, and ultimately, it is the Ghanaian users who will judge its impact,” she noted.
Enhancing Agricultural Productivity and Food Security
JICA Ghana is also deeply involved in supporting the country’s agricultural sector, with a particular focus on rice production.
Ms. Momoko revealed that Ghana successfully doubled its rice production during the first phase of a national initiative and is now aiming for further growth in the second phase.
However, she stressed that achieving long-term food security would require a comprehensive national rice development strategy.
“We are supporting Ghana in implementing a coherent policy to ensure sustainable production. If executed effectively, we have a good chance of meeting the set targets,” she stated.
The Role of Japanese Volunteers in Community Development
In addition to large-scale projects, JICA Ghana has been actively deploying Japanese volunteers to various Ghanaian communities. Ms. Momoko highlighted their significant contributions, which often go unnoticed in mainstream media.
“These volunteers immerse themselves in local communities, sometimes in challenging living conditions, to build strong relationships and drive small but impactful development initiatives,” she explained.
Some have even been honored with traditional titles for their dedication.
Infrastructure Resilience Against Climate Challenges
Addressing concerns about Ghana’s major roads being affected by heavy rains, Ms. Momoko assured that JICA incorporates climate resilience into its infrastructure projects.
“We conduct thorough preliminary studies and detailed designs that factor in Ghana’s rainfall patterns and future projections. This ensures that our projects have adequate drainage capacity to withstand extreme weather conditions,” she stated.
Sustaining Japan’s Support Amid Global Challenges
Despite some international agencies withdrawing support from developing economies, Ms. Momoko reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to Ghana and Africa.
“We understand the global impact of development partnerships, not just for recipient countries but also for donors like Japan. Our support remains steadfast, as we believe in fostering long-term progress in Ghana and across Africa,” she emphasized.
JICA Ghana’s ongoing efforts in infrastructure, agriculture, and community development demonstrate Japan’s continued role as a key partner in Ghana’s growth.
Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith
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