By Vincent Chauma

Kasungu, September 4, Mana: Japanese government has reaffirmed its commitment to support Malawi's efforts to improve its healthcare services, recognizing the importance of citizens' well-being in achieving the Malawi 2063 vision.

Japanese Ambassador to Malawi, Yoichi Oya said this during the official opening of Kapichira Health Centre in area of Sub-Traditional Authority Kachipira in Kasungu District.

Oya emphasized that Universal Health Coverage is crucial for human dignity and that the health and well-being of Malawians are essential for development, as outlined in the Malawi 2063.

"Malawi is facing so many challenges. As the government of Japan, Malawi is very good partner. So, we are supporting this country to overcome some of the challenges it faces," he said.

"There is great hope that this health facility will alleviate challenges faced by communities, particularly pregnant women, in accessing quality healthcare services," he added.

The ambassador also expressed hope that the facility will be well utilized and sustained, to be serving as a symbol of the friendship between Japan and Malawi.

Deputy Minister of Health, Halima Daudi, thanked the Japanese government for the support, highlighting that equitable healthcare is a priority of the Chakwera-led government.

She assured that President Lazarus Chakwera will maintain good working relationships with development partners to achieve Universal Health Coverage.

"The government plans to construct many health facilities to ensure that people easily access quality healthcare services," she said.

Kapichira Health Centre, which has maternity, running water, electricity and staff houses, will serve a population of at least 15,000 people, bringing the total number of health facilities in Kasungu District to 38.