Meeting with Yokohama residents shines light on ITTO’s on-the-ground impact

During the session, ITTO Finance/Administrative Officer Simon Kawaguchi highlighted key projects ITTO is implementing to support local communities and boost livelihoods:

• With funding provided by Soka Gakkai, an ITTO project implemented in Togo’s Blitta and Lacs Prefectures is changing the lives of women and improving silvicultural practices. The initiative has contributed to the restoration of degraded and deforested landscapes and has positioned women’s groups as key enablers of the region's prosperity.
• In Malaysia’s Upper Baram Forest Area, ITTO is supporting Indigenous groups to strengthen local sustainable forest management practices, enabling community-based development while uplifting livelihoods. 

Mr Kawaguchi also detailed ITTO’s engagement with the Yokohama community, including its recently signed official participation contract for GREEN × EXPO 2027, which will take place in Yokohama from March to September 2027. The delegation also learned about ITTO’s participation in local events, outreach to local schools, and ongoing engagement with policymakers from the City of Yokohama.

The group was greeted by ITTO Executive Director Sheam Satkuru, who spoke about the importance of improving livelihoods in tropical regions and the Organization’s tangible impact on millions of people across its member countries. As the first female Executive Director of the ITTO, Ms Satkuru underscored the importance and effectiveness of involving women as key actors in field projects.

Delegation members shared that they were inspired by Ms Satkuru’s remarks and expressed pride in ITTO’s achievements, particularly as the only international organization headquartered in Yokohama. They also voiced hope that more members of the Yokohama community will become aware of ITTO’s work, especially in the lead-up to its 40th anniversary and the upcoming GREEN x EXPO 2027.