A new chapter in Vanuatu’s sporting and cultural development has begun, following the signing ceremony yesterday for the construction of a dedicated Judo-Jo (Judo Hall) in Port Vila. The project, valued at USD 207,897 (around VUV 24.27 million), is jointly supported by the Governments of Japan and France through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Cultural Projects.

From a press release it states that the tripartite signing was officiated by H.E. OKUDA Naohisa, Ambassador of Japan to Vanuatu; H.E. Dr. Jean-Baptiste Jeangène Vilmer, Ambassador of France; and Mr. Nicolas Monvoisin, President of the Vanuatu Judo Federation.

The new Judo-Jo will provide a safe, cyclone-resistant training facility for judo athletes, instructors, and students following the destruction caused by the magnitude 7.3 earthquake off Port Vila in December 2024, which left many cultural and sporting venues unusable.

Ambassador OKUDA said the project reflects the deep partnership between the three nations.

“This Judo-Jo will benefit current and future generations, helping strengthen social resilience and providing a proper environment for athletes and students to train.”

A Unique Trilateral Collaboration

The project brings together several partners:

• Japan will fund the construction under its grassroots cultural assistance program.
• France will supply solar power systems and electrical works, ensuring a reliable and sustainable energy source for the new hall.
• The Vanuatu Tennis Club has made land available for the facility.
• JICA has deployed Japanese volunteers as judo coaches to support athlete training and instructor development.

France’s contribution underscores its longstanding judo culture, with Ambassador Vilmer highlighting the country’s 560,000 judo practitioners — far more than Japan’s 120,000.
Ambassador OKUDA humorously acknowledged this:

“Judo was born in Japan, but in Vanuatu’s judo world, Japan must concede to France.”

Strengthening Youth, Skills and Inclusion

Established in 2008, the Vanuatu Judo Federation is the only Japanese-affiliated sports body in the country and has 139 registered participants aged 3 to 35, supported by 14 instructors and staff. The Federation promotes not only technical skills but also character development, respect, discipline, and social inclusion — values deeply rooted in judo tradition.

The Federation also runs self-defense programs for women, supporting empowerment and gender equality. Students from nearby schools often participate as part of their curriculum.

A Facility Needed Now More Than Ever

Following last year’s earthquake, the Federation lost stable and safe training venues, making this Judo-Jo an urgent priority. With the new building, the number of participants is expected to return to — and potentially surpass — pre-earthquake levels, creating more opportunities for young people and strengthening community resilience.

A Project Aligned With National Goals

Ambassador OKUDA noted that the initiative supports the Vanuatu National Sustainable Development Plan 2016–2030 and aligns with the Ministry of Justice, Youth & Community Services’ goals for youth empowerment, sports development and safe community spaces.

He also expressed deep appreciation to local and international partners whose dedication made the project possible.