Special page: 60 years anniversary of deplomatic relations between Japan and Botswana

In 2026, Japan and Botswana marked the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. On the occasion of the launch of this special commemorative page, we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and respect to all those who have dedicated themselves to fostering friendship and goodwill between our two nations.

 

60 Years of Progress and Bonds of Trust

The relationship between our two nations, which began in 1966 with the independence of the Republic of Botswana, has steadily evolved over the past 60 years. As Botswana has fostered remarkable economic development and democracy—earning it the title of “Africa’s star pupil”—Japan has consistently stood by its side as a trusted partner.

In the construction of the Kazungula Bridge—an example of Japan’s support—Japan has provided not only loans for the overall project management, construction of access roads to the bridge, and construction of the One-Stop Border Post (OSBP) facility, but also technical cooperation to support the operation and management of the OSBP after its opening. In the field of renewable energy, Japan provided grant aid in 2010 for the development of a solar power generation system. In 2023, amid the lingering effects of the pandemic, Japan provided loans to support the implementation of social protection measures for vulnerable groups and green growth policies for private sector development and sustainable economic recovery.

 

Furthermore, Japan has hosted over 1,260 Botswanan JICA trainees to date, and 445 members of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) have been dispatched to various regions of Botswana to work alongside local communities. We are convinced that it is these people-to-people connections that have deepened mutual understanding between Japan and Botswana.

 

Shared Values and New Cooperation

In 2025, Vice President and Minister of Finance Ndaba Gaolathe made two visits to Japan. During his participation in the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9) held in Yokohama in August and his visits to Tokyo and Hiroshima in November, constructive dialogue focused on healthcare, education, vocational training, IT, tourism, sports, food processing, manufacturing, and infrastructure took place to advance the Botswana Economic Transformation Program (BETP). Furthermore, Vice President Gaolathe signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Toyota Tsusho, a major Japanese trading company, and Botswana, marking significant progress toward the implementation of a water project by the company to support basic living infrastructure. Through this initiative, we look forward to Japan becoming a “co-creation” partner in building a sustainable future together.

 

“Grassroots” Cooperation Supporting Local Communities

In addition to these large-scale projects, we have placed great importance on the “Grassroots Human Security Grant Assistance (GGP).” Through this scheme, we have supported the resolution of issues closely tied to people’s daily lives—such as education, health and sanitation, social welfare, and vocational training—via local governments and NGOs. By working closely with communities across Botswana to enhance social resilience at the grassroots level, this initiative has become one of the key pillars supporting the trust between our two nations.

 

Sports and Study Abroad: People-to-People Exchanges Weaving the Future

The bonds of exchange are deeply rooted especially among the young people who will lead the next generation. Exchange through sports is one such example. Technical coaching in softball, judo, badminton, and other sports provided by JICA Overseas Cooperation Volunteers has not only improved athletic performance but also fostered a spirit that values discipline and teamwork. Furthermore, at last year’s 2025 World Athletics Championships in Tokyo, the valiant efforts of Botswana’s athletes, who won gold medals, captivated Japanese audiences and reaffirmed the power of sports to connect hearts across language barriers.

 

Furthermore, the impact of exchange through study abroad on both nations is immeasurable. In 2025, in addition to existing exchange programs, the “Study in Japan” project was launched as a project commissioned by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). Through this initiative, an Akita University office has been established at the University of Botswana, and Japanese language courses are now being offered. Young people from Botswana who have studied in Japan and absorbed specialized knowledge and culture are now active in various fields upon their return home. Their presence, rooted in a deep understanding of Japan, serves as the strongest bridge supporting mutual understanding and cooperative relations between the two nations.

 

Toward the Next 60 Years

This 60th anniversary milestone is not merely an occasion to look back on the past. It is also a starting point for the next 60 years. We are determined to further accelerate this two-way exchange—where young talent from Botswana studies in Japan and Japanese companies invest in Botswana’s potential—to invigorate the relationship between our two nations.

We hope that the content presented on this special page will help as many people as possible learn about our bilateral relationship and feel that the distance between Japan and Botswana is closer than ever before.

In closing, I pray for the continued prosperity of the Republic of Botswana and the enduring friendship between the peoples of both nations.

 

Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to Botswana

SHINDO Yusuke

March, 2026

Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1966, Japan and Botswana have maintained a close dialogue. Botswana has contributed to TICAD since its inception, with active high-level exchanges including those at TICAD9 in 2025. Japan continues its strong cooperation with the Boko administration, sharing fundamental values such as democracy. We remain united by a bond of trust and mutual support on international issues.

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Economic cooperation between the two countries has included infrastructure, energy, and ICT to pursue “high-quality growth.” The introduction of the OSBP system at the Kazingura Bridge and the adoption of Japan’s digital terrestrial broadcasting standards have driven logistics reform and digitalization. By leveraging Japanese technology, the two countries are deepening their sustainable and mutually beneficial economic partnership.

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Since 1992, more than 440 JICA Volunteers have carried out grassroots activities throughout Botswana in fields such as education, ICT and so on. Our journey of more than 30 years of “living and working together” on the ground has laid the foundation for unwavering trust and friendship between our two nations. This “exchange of hearts” is the most valuable asset underpinning the partnership between Japan and Botswana.

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The Embassy administers a scholarship program sponsored by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) for study in Japan. This program provides support for tuition and living expenses, and we recruit students who will serve as bridges between our two countries in the future. The latest application guidelines and schedules are posted regularly on the Embassy’s website and Facebook page.

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