LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-Vice President Jane Ansah on Thursday, 11 December 2025, hosted outgoing Japanese Ambassador Yoichi Oya for a farewell engagement marking the end of his diplomatic mission in Malawi.

During the meeting, Ansah conveyed her gratitude for Ambassador Oya’s impactful tenure, noting that his leadership had played a crucial role in deepening the partnership between the two nations.

She reflected on the enduring friendship between Malawi and Japan, a relationship grounded in mutual respect and shared development goals since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1964.

The Vice President highlighted that Japan remains one of Malawi’s most dependable partners, supporting wide-ranging development efforts in sectors such as public health, energy, agriculture, education, infrastructure, and human resource development.

She pointed to several flagship Japanese-funded initiatives, including the construction of the new Lilongwe River Bridge, the modernization of electricity substations in Kanengo and Old Town, and upgrades at Domasi Technical College of Education.

Dr Ansah also applauded the Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers programme, noting that Malawi hosts the largest number of Japanese volunteers globally due to the country’s stability, warmth, and cultural affinity with Japan.

She commended Japan’s continued investment in the transformation of the Nacala Corridor, describing it as a strategic lifeline for regional trade benefiting Malawi, Mozambique, and Zambia.

Ambassador Oya, in his farewell remarks, congratulated Dr Ansah on her September 2025 electoral victory and reflected on his six years of service, which spanned two diplomatic terms.

He recalled Cyclone Freddy as one of the most heartbreaking moments of his time in Malawi, describing the devastation along the southern borders as an unforgettable tragedy.

Speaking later in an interview, Ambassador Oya shared his fond memories of Malawi, from the serenity of Lake Malawi to the vibrant Japan Day celebrations, and expressed optimism that Japanese culture will continue to flourish across the country even after his departure.

The Maravi Post