Saralnama
Japan's plan to link four cities with African countries as symbolic 'hometowns' caused confusion. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) launched the programme to promote cultural exchange and cooperation through education and sports. The cities are Nagai with Tanzania, Kisarazu with Nigeria, Sanjo with Ghana, and Imabari with Mozambique. False reports claimed these cities would accept many African immigrants with special visas. This caused many angry calls and emails to city offices. Mayors and the Japanese government clarified the programme does not involve immigration or new visa rules. The initiative focuses only on cultural and youth exchanges. Despite corrections, some social media users remain suspicious. The programme aims to build friendship and support local communities, not change immigration policies. How to avoid misunderstandings is to check official sources carefully before sharing news. (Updated 27 Aug 2025, 18:15 IST; source: link)