By 
Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Tobias Mulimbika, has emphasized the need for innovative solutions and strategic partnerships with Japan to strengthen Zambia’s healthcare system.
He highlighted Japan’s long-standing support through various health initiatives, including upgrading urban clinics to first-level hospitals and expanding vaccination coverage.
Mulimbika made these remarks during a symposium in Tokyo commemorating Zambia’s 60th Independence Anniversary, where he outlined the significant progress achieved through Japanese cooperation.
The event was attended by officials and stakeholders from both countries, marking a key moment in the bilateral relationship.
According to a statement issued in Lusaka on Friday from Zambia’s First Secretary for Press and Public Relations, Faith Chilube, Mulimbika acknowledged the challenges Zambia still faces in providing quality healthcare to its population, including shortages of trained medical personnel, inadequate medical supplies, and aging healthcare infrastructure.
“While Japan has been a steadfast partner in improving our healthcare system, Zambia continues to struggle with these challenges.
“We need Japan’s advanced medical technologies and capacity-building expertise to help us address these gaps,” Mulimbika said.
The Ambassador urged Japan to consider investments in healthcare infrastructure, medical technology, and pharmaceutical manufacturing ventures to reduce Zambia’s reliance on imported drugs.
He also called for a focus on digital health solutions, such as telemedicine, to bridge the gap in healthcare access for remote areas.
Mulimbika further proposed the establishment of knowledge exchange programs and scholarships to build local capacity and train a skilled workforce.
He also advocated for green health initiatives, including solar-powered clinics to address power reliability issues while promoting environmental sustainability.
“By partnering in these areas, we can transform our healthcare sector, ensuring that more Zambians benefit from improved health services,” Mulimbika added.
Read More: Zambia urges African nations to boost air traffic through liberalisation
In response, Japan’s Deputy Director General for African Affairs, Murakami Kenju, reiterated Japan’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s healthcare sector, particularly in medical care, water, sanitation, and infectious disease control.
He emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral economic relations and encouraging Japanese companies to invest further in Zambia’s healthcare infrastructure.
“Zambia is a valued partner, and we remain committed to enhancing our support for the health sector and other key areas of development,” Kenju stated.
The symposium underscored the deepening collaboration between Zambia and Japan, with a focus on addressing the country’s healthcare challenges through strategic, innovative partnerships.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR!
Comments