Japan pledges US$98 244 for Mbire school project 

THE government of Japan has committed US$98 244 towards the construction of classroom blocks, ablution facilities and teachers’ accommodation at Tanaka Primary School in Mbire district, Mashonaland Central province.

The project, which will be implemented by World Vision International Zimbabwe, is expected to improve learning conditions and address classroom shortages at the school.

The funding agreement was signed on October 26, 2026, between Japanese ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nobutaka Maekawa, and a representative of the implementing organisation under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) programme.

Tanaka Primary School, established in 2022, is currently unable to accommodate Grade Six and Seven learners, forcing them to travel more than seven kilometres to attend another school.

The shortage of classrooms has also resulted in overcrowding, with some pupils occasionally forced to learn outdoors.

The school also faces accommodation challenges, with four teachers reportedly living and sleeping in a staff room measuring approximately 10 square metres.

In a statement, the Japanese embassy said the project would help create a better learning environment for pupils and improve teachers’ living conditions.

“With the construction of classroom block, ablution block and teachers cottage, it is expected to be able to start accepting grade 6 and 7 as well as all the grade students being able to be study in a conducive leaning environment,” the statement said.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Maekawa expressed hope that the project would positively impact the community, while emphasising the need for World Vision to fully implement it for the benefit of local residents.

Japan launched its GGP programme in Zimbabwe in 1989, and has since funded 167 projects worth more than US$16 million.