Four Japanese cities are set to be recognized as the "hometowns" of African nations, aiming to foster human resources who can serve as bridges between Japan and Africa.

The initiative is being launched in conjunction with a Japan-led conference on Africa's development.

The Tokyo International Conference on African Development, or TICAD, will take place in Yokohama City for three days from August 20.

JICA, the Japan International Cooperation Agency, plans to designate at least four Japanese municipalities as "hometowns" of African countries as part of its initiative to deepen exchanges.

So far, Nagai City in Yamagata Prefecture is expected to be named as the hometown of Tanzania; Kisarazu City in Chiba will be the hometown of Nigeria; Sanjo City in Niigata will serve as hometown for Ghana; and Imabari City in Ehime, for Mozambique.

Foreign ministry officials say that by the year 2050 the population of Africa is expected to be about a quarter of the world's population, so it is essential for Japan to incorporate the vitality of the continent.

The officials add that they hope direct connections between Japanese and African municipalities will lead to the expansion of exchanges.