Abdullswamad meets Japan envoy on infrastructure

Mombasa Governor Abdullswamad Nassir on Friday held talks with Japanese Ambassador Ken Okaniwa in his office at Elimu na Mazingira Building in Treasury Square.

This is the third visit of the Asian envoy to the county boss signaling the close diplomatic relations between Tokyo and Mombasa.

Japan has traditionally been a key strategic partner to Mombasa having funded a number of infrastructure projects under the Mombasa Gate City framework.

Through the Japan International Cooperation Agency, $30 million (Sh4,272,000,000) has been allocated to implement Intelligent Transport System consisting of smart traffic lights.

"This project is expected to ease congestion by enhancing traffic management on our expanding road infrastructure," Abdullswamad said during the talks.

"It is my expectation that the national government shall allow the necessary tax reliefs to allow this grant-funded project to take off towards implementation as soon as possible," he added. 

Okaniwa notified the governor of Japan's intention to offer Official Development Assistance in the form of technical capacity building in the field of solid waste management.

"I must say I'm impressed by the improved cleanliness in the county and we are pleased to partner with the County Government of Mombasa towards environmental sustainability," he said.

Abdullswamd appears to be on a charm offensive with the diplomatic corps having hosted several ambassadors to rally support for Mombasa Mwanzo Moya manifesto.