By Burnett Munthali
Vice President Dr Jane Ansah on 11 December 2025 held a farewell engagement with Japan’s outgoing Ambassador, His Excellency Yoichi Oya, bringing to a close a diplomatic term defined by strengthened bilateral cooperation.
Dr Ansah used the occasion to extend Malawi’s heartfelt appreciation, noting that Ambassador Oya’s dedicated service had further cemented the partnership between the two countries and advanced key areas of development.
She underscored that relations between Malawi and Japan, established over six decades ago, continue to thrive on shared values, respect, and a joint pursuit of sustainable development.
The Vice President pointed out that Japan has consistently stood by Malawi as one of its most dependable development allies, contributing extensively across sectors such as healthcare, energy reform, agriculture, education, infrastructure expansion, and capacity enhancement.
She highlighted transformative projects supported by Japan, including the new Lilongwe River Bridge, the upgrading of electricity substations in Kanengo and Old Town, and improvements at Domasi Technical College of Education.
Dr Ansah also recognised the contribution of the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers, praising Malawi’s unique distinction as the world’s largest host of Japanese volunteers—a reflection of the country’s stability, warmth, and cultural compatibility.
She further acknowledged Japan’s committed role in revamping the Nacala Corridor, an important trade route whose modernization continues to benefit the economies of Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia.
In his farewell address, Ambassador Oya applauded the Vice President for her recent electoral victory and reflected fondly on his two-term, six-year tenure in Malawi.
He described the aftermath of Cyclone Freddy as one of the most sobering moments of his mission, recalling the scale of destruction and human suffering he witnessed in affected border areas.
In his final reflections, Ambassador Oya spoke warmly of his time in Malawi, expressing admiration for Lake Malawi, the annual Japan Day festivities, and his hope that Japanese culture will continue to flourish long after his departure.
