Our equipment has finally arrived in Niamey, the capital of Niger!
As Niger is a landlocked country with complex and unstable security conditions, transporting goods there was not easy at all.
Thanks to accurate advice from our trusted Nigerien partners, we were able to find the safest possible route—and we made it.
Just reaching Niamey with everything intact feels like a major achievement.
Our First Project with an International Organization
This is our first official collaboration with a public international organization, and we have learned a lot—sometimes the hard way.
To be honest, we underestimated the Japanese export procedures.
We were surprised to learn how many tiny details and documents are required.
We expected challenges on the Niger side, but even just exporting from Japan turned out to be a major operation.
Was it because of Niger? Or because it was our first time?
Either way, it was clear:
Shipping the goods alone was incredibly difficult.
A Project Led by ABE Initiative Alumni
Now that the equipment has arrived, we are ready to begin the on-site installation phase.
This project is supported by two local partners who are both graduates of the ABE Initiative program.
They studied in Japan, received technical training with our team at Tsuji Plastics, and have now returned to their home countries to build something real.
- Moutari from Niger is leading the local coordination.
- John from South Sudan has come to join the project as a solar technician and business partner.
This is not just a “training follow-up.”
They are real business partners, turning what they learned in Japan into actual impact on the ground.
It’s a true success story of the ABE Initiative in action.
The Hard Part Is Just Beginning
Unfortunately, the project site is located in an area with unstable security conditions.
We’ve already received notice from local authorities that escort arrangements will be necessary for safe transportation and installation.
Yes, it’s a challenge.
But strangely enough—we feel okay.
Why?
Because we’re not doing it alone.
We have trustworthy partners on the ground who know the area, who care about the mission, and who are working with us every step of the way.
When you’re with people you trust, even big challenges feel manageable.
Niamey Feels Peaceful—But the Map Says Otherwise
For those unfamiliar with the region, it’s worth mentioning:
According to Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, almost all of Niger is marked red on the risk map, meaning “Do Not Travel” or “Evacuate.”
We are working in a place that most would avoid entirely.
But Niamey, the capital, is surprisingly calm and peaceful.
The streets are lively, the people are kind, and the city feels stable.
It’s a reminder that what you read on a map doesn’t always reflect the reality on the ground.
Of course, we remain cautious and follow all safety protocols—but we move forward, with care and with confidence.
A Message to Current ABE Initiative Students in Japan
Shipping the goods was tough.
But having the equipment arrive safely, and seeing the project finally begin, made it all worth it.
And now, we want to speak directly to those of you who are currently in Japan as ABE Initiative students.
Would you like to start a real business with us to solve challenges in your home country?
Would you like to turn your training in Japan into a long-term partnership?
We are looking for future business partners—people who are serious, passionate, and ready to take action.
If you want to make a difference in your country, let’s talk.
Because the next success story… could be yours.
