Report on the “Gonan Omusubi” Restoration Project to the Nicaraguan Ambassador to Japan and the Mayor of Kamakura

The “Gonan Omusubi” Restoration Project, the second phase of the Kamakura Ethical Lab's collaborative initiative for industrial and regional development, aims to revive the region's food culture for the modern age. We visited the Embassy of the Republic of Nicaragua in Japan and Kamakura Municipal Office to report on the project's progress, as detailed below.

H.E. Ms. Sandy Anabell Davila Sandoval

Visit to the Embassy of the Republic of Nicaragua in Japan

On April 15th, Kamakura Ethical Lab visited the Embassy of the Republic of Nicaragua in Japan and met with Her Excellency Ms. Sandy Anabell Davila Sandoval. This visit was facilitated by the use of Nicaraguan white sesame, a fair trade product, in the Gonan Omusubi.

At the beginning of the meeting, Rev. Chishin Hirai, the project initiator and abbot of Ankokuonji Temple, explained the project's current status. The Ambassador listened attentively and inquired about the project's significance and future development. Following this, the Ambassador had the opportunity to experience Japanese food culture by tasting the Gonan Omusubi. The Ambassador showed great interest in the food, and the exchange of opinions took place in a friendly atmosphere.

The Ambassador spoke about the challenging situation in Nicaragua, including decreased production due to climate change and shifts in the global landscape. In these circumstances, he stated that this project, a piece of positive news from Kamakura, offers significant hope for the Nicaraguan people. He also noted that this year marks the 90th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Nicaragua, and that the promotion of this project is a noteworthy event for this commemorative year for both nations. On behalf of the Nicaraguan people, he expressed his sincere gratitude to the people of Kamakura.

Mr. Takashi Matsuo Mayor of Kamakura

Visit to the Mayor of Kamakura

Similarly, on April 17th, Kamakura Ethical Lab, accompanied by Rev. Chishin Hirai , the chief priest of Ankokuronji Temple, and Ms. Ayako Hiramatsu from the Development Section, Rice Sales Department, Rice Business Division of Mitsuhashi Corporation, visited Kamakura Municipal Office to introduce the project to the Mayor of Kamakura and to offer a tasting of the Gonan Omusubi.

The Mayor acknowledged the significance of the project in revitalizing local food culture and listened attentively. He also highly praised the Gonan Omusubi he tasted and expressed his expectations for the project's future development.

Through this report to the Nicaraguan Ambassador to Japan and the Mayor of Kamakura, we were able to reaffirm the growing expectations and interest in the “Gonan Omusubi” restoration project. We will continue to advance this project while strengthening cooperation with the local community to contribute to regional revitalization and international collaboration.