In a move to strengthen Tanzania’s education sector, the Government of Japan, through its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGHSP), has extended a grant of US$109,203 equivalent to approximately TZS 275 million for the construction of a new classroom block and improvement of the sanitation environment at Orng’adida Primary School in Babati District, Manyara Region.
Speaking today at the Ambassador Residence in Dar es Salaam during the signing ceremony between the Japanese Embassy and So They Can Tanzania, Japanese Ambassador Mikami Yoichi said Japan has been supporting local communities across sectors such as education, health, and water since 1989 through the GGHSP scheme.
“The grant will be used to construct a classroom block with three classrooms, three toilet blocks for boys, girls, and teachers, and two water towers at Orng’adida Primary School,” Ambassador Yoichi said.
“It will also provide 60 desks and chairs for students and three sets for teachers, helping to reduce overcrowding and improve sanitation for over 1,000 students and 20 staff.”he added
He added that this project marks Japan’s first GGHSP initiative in Babati District and builds upon earlier support to the region, including the construction of Simbay Health Centre in Hanang District in 2005.
The grant agreement was signed by Ambassador Mikami Yoichi and So They Can Tanzania Country Manager Roselyne Mariki
Ambassador Yoichi noted that Japan and Tanzania have maintained strong ties for more than 60 years, with cooperation spanning education, health, water, transport, and agriculture.
Since 1989, Japan has implemented 388 grassroots projects across Tanzania, valued at over US$28 million (approximately TZS 73 billion).
He also highlighted Japan’s role in co-financing the upgrading of the Dodoma–Babati road in 2013, which reduced travel time between the two towns from seven hours to just two and a half, further demonstrating Japan’s long-term commitment to Tanzania’s development.
“The year 2025 is particularly special for Japan-Africa relations, as both the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) and the World Expo were held in Japan, offering opportunities for Tanzanian representatives to strengthen bilateral cooperation,” he added.
Ambassador Yoichi expressed hope that the new facilities will inspire students in Babati to dream big and continue their educational journey, possibly one day visiting Japan to experience the partnership firsthand.
For her part, So They Can Tanzania Country Manager Roselyne Mariki said education is a powerful driver for sustainable change.
“At So They Can, we believe that empowering communities through quality education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty. This grant will significantly enhance learning conditions and support both teachers and students,” she said.
Babati District Executive Director Anna Mbogo commended the partnership, saying the support from the Japanese government and So They Can will help children learn in a better environment and achieve their dreams.