The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has officially terminated its “JICA Africa Hometown” initiative, citing widespread misunderstandings and mounting public opposition.

JICA president, Tanaka Akihiko, announced the cancellation on Thursday, noting that the use of the term “hometown” and the agency’s designation of Japanese municipalities for African countries created “misunderstandings and confusion within Japan,” while also placing an “excessive burden” on the four participating cities.

The project, unveiled on August 22 during the 9th Tokyo International Conference for African Development (TICAD9), had designated Kisarazu as Nigeria’s “hometown,” Nagai for Tanzania, Sanjo for Ghana, and Imabari for Mozambique.

Shortly after the announcement, controversy erupted when reports falsely suggested that Japan was creating a special visa category for Nigerians relocating to Kisarazu. The Nigerian presidency issued a statement amplifying the claim, which was later firmly denied by the Japanese government.

Similar misinformation spread in Tanzania, with some outlets reporting that Nagai city would be absorbed into the East African nation. These reports fueled public outrage in Japan, leading to protests and viral social media campaigns warning of risks to public safety, pressure on local resources, and fears of uncontrolled immigration.

“After consulting with all parties involved, JICA has decided to withdraw the ‘JICA Africa Hometown’ initiative,” the agency said in a statement. It further clarified that it has never promoted immigration and has no intention of doing so in the future.

Despite the withdrawal, JICA emphasized its continued commitment to fostering international exchange and cooperation.