Online Reporter
Takudzwa Karowangoro
Local Government and Public Works Deputy Minister Albert Mavunga has called on the international community to embrace a modern and fair perspective of Africa, stressing the importance of building equal partnerships between African countries and Japan.
He made the remarks on Monday at an economic forum in Osaka held under the theme “Carving a Shared Future: Africa and Japan as Equal Partners.”
The gathering brought together senior policymakers, diplomats, and business executives from both continents to explore opportunities in areas such as trade, infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development.
The deputy minister said Africa should no longer be viewed through stereotypes of dependency and fragility, but rather as a continent of enterprise, innovation, and vast potential.
“It is a profound honour to stand before you not only as a representative of Zimbabwe but as a voice from a continent full of promise,” he said.
“Africa must no longer be seen through a lens of dependency. That narrative is outdated.”
He also described Osaka, a city renowned for balancing tradition and modernity, as a fitting place to reshape Africa-Japan relations.
He added that the event was more than a business forum, but an opportunity to create a lasting framework for cooperation built on respect and mutual benefit.
Deputy Minister Mavunga urged the world to move past outdated narratives that portray Africa as weak or unstable, insisting that the continent is becoming an essential player in the global economy.
He pointed to Japan’s growing interest in Africa’s markets, resources, and expanding consumer base as a sign of shifting dynamics.
According to Mavunga, African nations are not seeking handouts but rather fair access to investment, technology transfer, and innovation to support inclusive growth.
His message resonated strongly with delegates, especially African representatives who are keen to strengthen ties with Japan through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and investments in renewable energy, agriculture, and digital infrastructure.
Mavunga closed his address with a passionate appeal, “Let us return the chorus to the motherland and commit to building a shared and prosperous future. Africa is ready to lead and ready to partner.”
The Osaka forum marked another step in redefining Africa–Japan relations, highlighting a growing commitment to partnerships anchored in equality, opportunity, and long-term cooperation.
