Japan Bolsters Zambia’s Refugee Support with Over $7.1 Million Grant for Infrastructure and Protection

On February 11, 2026, the Government of Japan announced a significant grant exceeding 7.1 million US dollars to the Republic of Zambia, specifically aimed at fortifying refugee protection services and essential infrastructure. This announcement followed a high-level meeting between Zambia’s Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr. Mwiimbu, and the Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, Mr. Mikami Akiteru. This substantial financial commitment serves as a testament to the enduring diplomatic partnership between the two nations, which has flourished for more than six decades.

The newly allocated funding is strategically divided into two primary channels to maximize its impact on the ground. A major portion, totaling 5.9 million US dollars, will be administered through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). These funds are earmarked for the development of critical infrastructure within the Meheba and Mayukwayukwa refugee settlements, located in the North-Western and Western Provinces, respectively. Historically, these sites have served as vital sanctuaries for a large number of displaced individuals, particularly those fleeing instability in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

In addition to the infrastructure investment, 1.2 million US dollars has been designated for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This segment of the grant is intended to bolster protection mechanisms and ensure the provision of comprehensive social services for newly arriving refugees. Minister Mwiimbu emphasized that while Zambia remains steadfast in its humanitarian obligations, the continuous influx of people from the DRC creates an urgent and ongoing need for sustained international cooperation and financial backing from global partners.

This assistance is not an isolated contribution but is integrated into a broader framework of sustainable regional development championed by Japan. It complements the HOPE II project, a five-year initiative launched in February 2026 through a collaboration between Japan and the UNDP. Executed in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), HOPE II focuses on fostering self-reliance among former refugees and their host communities. The project specifically targets the districts of Kalumbila (Meheba) and Kaoma (Mayukwayukwa), with the ambitious goal of creating inclusive, productive environments for over 100,000 residents.

Minister Mwiimbu reiterated Zambia’s dedication to deepening this bilateral cooperation, noting that Japanese aid significantly enhances the well-being of refugees while simultaneously stimulating the economies of local host communities. Ambassador Akiteru highlighted that the grant is provided without any preconditions, illustrating Tokyo’s long-term humanitarian dedication to the African continent. With a shared border of 2,332 kilometers with the DRC, Zambia continues to play a pivotal role as a regional hub for managing migration and providing stability in Southern Africa.