THE Japanese Government through Japan International Cooperation (JICA) has applauded Zambia for its exemplary leadership in hosting refugees.

And JICA Senior Advisor on Peace building, Dohi Yuko has affirmed her government’s commitment towards supporting the implementation of the community integrated policies to ensure refugees are well accommodated.

ZANIS reports that Ms Yuko was speaking when her delegation from JICA Headquarters in Tokyo paid a courtesy call on North-Western Province Minister, Robert Lihefu in Solwezi.

Ms Yuko, who is also the delegation leader, said her team is in the province   on a two-day working visit to check on the projects and activities that are being undertaken through the JICA-HOPE project in Meheba Resettlement Scheme in Kalumbila district.

She pointed out that JICA hope Projects being undertaken in the province are aimed at improving the welfare of refugees. 

“We have been working together for the past four years and we want to express our gratitude to Zambia for its accommodating policies for people affected or displaced as a result of conflict in their countries,” she said.

Ms Yuko stressed that Zambia has been a sort of model in spearheading different initiatives for people concerned be it former refugees or people fleeing from their different countries where there are challenges.

“Zambia has been exemplary. I should say globally it is well noted Ms Yuko emphasized,” she said.

Mr Lihefu expressed gratitude for thecontinued cooperation partnership between Zambia and Japan through (JICA).

Mr Lihefu said the government is grateful for the support to various sectors that (JICA) has continued rendering in Zambia and North-Western Province in particular.

He said the support has played a role in improving the welfare of citizens and refugees in Zambia. 

Mr Lihefu further cited  the construction of two (1×2) classroom blocks in the Meheba Resettlement scheme through the JICA-HOPE project which he said government is grateful for.

“Let me appreciate you for the works that you have been doing for the people of this Province and of the country at large. We have a number of projects that your country has been doing in Zambia since inception. The province has been hosting a number of refugees coming from different countries and we appreciate the support that has been coming from you as our partners,” he said.

Mr Lihefu has since assured Ms Yuko of the government’s commitment to foster a peaceful and favourable environment for continued partnership with Japan and other countries.

Other projects that have been worked on by by JICA include the construction of carpentry and tailoring workshops, three transit houses and 2 boreholes at Block F Service Centre among others.