The Ambassador of Japan Mr. SHINDO Yusuke and his Delegation paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Minister of International Relations Honourable Dr. Phenyo Butale to brief him on the progress of the collaboration between the Government of Botswana and Toyota Tsusho Corporation on proposed water infrastructure projects.

The Ambassador informed the Minister that, following the strategic partnership signed during TICAD9 in November 2025, Toyota Tsusho has been working closely with the Government of Botswana to identify suitable water projects. He noted that, after consultations with the Ministry of Water and Human Settlement and Water Utilities Corporation, the Francistown and Kanye/Moshupa Water Projects were identified for feasibility studies.

The projects involve the rehabilitation of existing water networks and the installation of new infrastructure to improve water supply. The Ambassador further advised that site visits had been completed and that Toyota Tsusho is currently undertaking feasibility studies while engaging relevant stakeholders. He reaffirmed the Government of Japan's commitment to supporting Botswana's infrastructure development through this partnership.

In response, the Honourable Minister of International Relations welcomed the Ambassador and his delegation and expressed appreciation to the Government of Japan and Toyota Tsusho Corporation for their continued support and interest in Botswana's development. The Minister reaffirmed Botswana's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Japan and assured the Ambassador that the Government would continue to support the successful implementation of the proposed water infrastructure projects through the relevant ministries and agencies.