Deputy Minister Albert Mavunga Urges Equal Africa-Japan Partnership at Osaka Economic Forum

Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Albert Mavunga, has urged the global community to adopt a renewed and balanced view of Africa, calling for a transformative and equitable partnership between African nations and Japan.

Speaking at a high-level economic forum in Osaka themed “Carving a Shared Future: Africa and Japan as Equal Partners,” Honorable  Mavunga emphasized the need to move beyond outdated perceptions of Africa, advocating for a narrative that reflects the continent’s innovation, enterprise, and potential.

“It is a profound honour to stand before you not only as a representative of Zimbabwe but as a voice from a continent brimming with opportunity,” said Mavunga. “Africa must no longer be seen through a lens of dependency. That story is over.”

The forum brought together business leaders, diplomats, and policymakers from across Africa and Japan to explore strategic economic collaborations, particularly in trade, infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development.

Mavunga described Osaka—a city known for blending tradition with innovation—as the perfect venue for reimagining Africa-Japan relations. He described the forum’s theme as more than symbolic.

“This is not just about doing business; it is about building a legacy and forging a blueprint for future cooperation based on mutual respect.”

The Deputy Minister challenged lingering global narratives that portray Africa as unstable or economically fragile, insisting instead that African nations are emerging as critical players in global markets. He also noted Japan’s increasing interest in Africa’s resources and growing consumer base.

African countries, Mavunga said, are not seeking aid but fair and inclusive economic engagement—including technology transfer, access to innovation, and sustainable investment.

The address drew positive reactions, particularly from African delegates eager to deepen ties with Japan through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and sectoral investments in renewable energy, agriculture, and digital infrastructure.

Mavunga ended his address with a rousing appeal to both continents:

“Let us sing the chorus back to the motherland and commit to building a shared and prosperous future. Africa is ready to lead—and ready to partner.”

The Osaka forum marks a significant moment in the evolving relationship between Africa and Japan, as leaders from both sides continue to seek stronger, more balanced partnerships grounded in respect, opportunity, and common purpose.

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