JICA: Japanese firms to play pilot role in Ukraine’s recovery - EXCLUSIVE

Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has highlighted the decision-making process behind its participation in Estonia’s ESTDEV-led Modular Housing Construction Project for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Brusyliv, Zhytomyr region, Orie Hato, representative of JICA’s Ukraine support office, told CE Report.

According to Hato, two main factors drove the decision to join the project. Firstly, Nichiha Corporation, a Japanese company engaged in the initiative, had already established contact with ESTDEV through its Estonian representative, which ensured that ESTDEV was familiar with Nichiha’s technology.

Secondly, the implementation period of JICA’s program, “Enhancing Private Sector Engagement for the Reconstruction of Ukraine,” coincided with ESTDEV’s modular housing project. This alignment created favorable conditions that led to an agreement on concrete project collaboration.

“Considering Ukraine’s substantial reconstruction needs and available funding, expanding private sector investment is crucial,” Hato noted.

“That is why JICA is working with the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine to provide policy recommendations aimed at improving the investment environment.”

She emphasized that Japanese companies are encouraged to contribute to Ukraine’s recovery by testing products and services through pilot projects, with the long-term goal of participating in reconstruction on a larger scale.

Hato further stressed JICA’s commitment to exploring additional opportunities for cooperation in support of Ukraine. While ESTDEV leads the impact assessment of the housing project, JICA has entrusted the Estonian partner with selecting the evaluation indicators.

“The purpose of our project is to promote private sector participation in Ukraine’s reconstruction through policy recommendations, while also supporting trial-based contributions from Japanese companies,” she added.