Nagai City x Tanzania Exchange Sparks Controversy!? "Understanding the Gentle Charm of Tanzanians and Their "Pole Pole" Way of Life in 3 Minutes"
In August 2025, Nagai City in Yamagata Prefecture was recognized as the hometown of the United Republic of Tanzania by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). However, this friendly initiative sparked an unexpected uproar.
↓Our image of Tanzania
↓In reality, there are big cities too! Dar es Salaam (over 5 million people) 
First, let's take a look at why the controversy started.
False report that "Nagai City was dedicated to Tanzania" sparks outrage
The Tanzanian English-language newspaper, the Tanzania Times, ran a report with the headline, "Japan dedicates Nagai City to Tanzania." This sparked a flood of protests, with over 500 messages stating, "Nagai City will become part of Tanzania," and "We are against accepting immigrants."
Source: CNET Japan
The cause of this misinformation was a misinterpretation of the English word "dedicate." In reality, it meant "Nagai City was designated as Tanzania's hometown." Just like Kisarazu City's recognition of Nigeria, this uproar was born out of a miscommunication of information.
I would also like to tell you about what Tanzanians are like and what kind of country they are.
Tanzanians vs. Nigerians: polar opposites
While Nigerians are known for being "argumentative" and "passionate," Tanzanians are known for being "pole pole" (slow) and "gentle."
Learning how to live a spiritually rich life from "Pole Pole"
"Pole pole" is a word often heard in Tanzania and does not simply mean "slowly." It is a profound word that embodies a philosophy of life: "Don't rush, don't be hasty, go at your own pace," "don't push yourself," and "don't worry."
In today's world where we tend to place emphasis on efficiency and speed, this film makes us reconsider what is truly important.
A successful example of multi-ethnic harmony
Tanzania is home to over 100 tribes, but unlike Nigeria, there is little violent conflict based on religion or ethnicity, and they coexist relatively peacefully. The secret to this peaceful coexistence lies in the Tanzanian people's "tolerance" and "values that emphasize harmony over conflict."
The warmth of Tanzanians
"Caribbean" hospitality culture
When Tanzanians welcome guests, they warmly greet them with "Karibu!" (Welcome!). No matter how poor a family is, they are warm-hearted and will generously share what they have. This "heart of cherishing others" has something in common with the Japanese "spirit of hospitality."
The spirit of "Ujamaa" (familyism)
Ujamaa, advocated by Tanzania's first president, Nyerere, is a communitarian concept of "helping each other like family." The value of prioritizing the happiness of the entire community over individual profit remains deeply rooted to this day.
*However, although this was a socialist concept and had lofty ideals, in reality many difficulties arose, agricultural production stagnated, and food shortages became serious. Ultimately, an economic crisis became apparent at the end of the 1970s, and in the 1980s, under the guidance of the IMF and the World Bank, the country switched to market reforms.
And of course there is a wonderful culture.
Colourful Tanzanian Culture
World-class traditional crafts
The ebony carvings of the Makonde people, depicting Shetani (spirits), are representative Tanzanian art. These delicate and beautiful woodcarvings are one-of-a-kind pieces that are imbued with the soul of the artisans.
A desire for peace expressed in music
Tanzanians have a diverse musical culture, including bongo flavors and modern taarab, which express the peace-loving and harmony-oriented values of the Tanzanian people.
So, what should you do if you meet a Tanzanian in Japan amid all this turmoil?
If you meet a Tanzanian in Japan
Some people may be worried about this recent controversy, but Tanzanians are very gentle and friendly people.
Basic contact
Greet with "Jambo!" - Greeting someone with "Jambo" (hello) in Swahili is a great way to greet them.
Enjoy a relaxed conversation - In keeping with the "pole pole" culture, enjoy a relaxed conversation without rushing.
Hear stories of their families and hometowns - Ask about their beautiful hometowns, such as Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti, and Zanzibar.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Zanzibar
Things to avoid
As mentioned on the Nigerian page , it is important to treat people as "Tanzanians" rather than as "Africans." Also, avoid asking stereotypical questions (such as "Are there lions in the city?").
This is a common thing among Japanese people, so please be careful.
Commonalities between Japanese and Tanzanians
Cooperation and respect for nature
There are similarities between the Tanzanian "Ujamaa" spirit and the Japanese "Wa" culture, as well as the Tanzanian worship of nature and the Japanese view of nature. The attitude of valuing harmony of the entire community over the individual and coexisting with nature is a beautiful characteristic shared by both cultures.
"Pole Pole" international exchange
It was unfortunate that this incident occurred, but I hope that this will be an opportunity for people to discover the true charm of Tanzania.
What's important is that the public be fully informed and the decision-making process be transparent. We need to make calm decisions based on accurate information so that good Tanzanians already living in Japan don't suffer the consequences.
Representative Kaoru Tsuji
