在ザンビア日本国大使館
　Embassy of Japan in the Republic of Zambia

Awarding Ceremony of the Foreign Minister's Commendations for FY 2016

　　On 1st September, the Embassy of Japan also held an awarding ceremony of the Foreign Minister's Commendations for FY 2016 at the Ambassador’s residence. The Foreign Minister's Commendations are awarded to individuals and groups with outstanding achievements in international fields, to acknowledge their contributions to the promotion of friendship between Japan and other countries and areas.

　　This year, Prof. Aaron Mweene, Professor of the School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia and Dr. Joseph Mulenga, Medical Director of Zambia National Blood Transfusion Service of the Ministry of Health, have received this award in recognition of their service in their contribution to promoting friendly relations between Japan and Zambia. They were each presented with an award certificate by H.E. Mr. Kiyoshi Koinuma. In response, both recipients expressed gratitude for the commendation, adding that they would like to continue to work towards further strengthening of cordial relations between both countries.

　　Dr. Mweene studied at Hokkaido University in 1992 through the MEXT scholarship program. Following the completion of his studies, he has been involved in many co-projects with Japanese Government institutions including JICA, making a contribution to develop zoonosis Zambia. Dr. Joseph Mulenga visited Japan in 1995 to participate in the JICA training program. He has also been serving as president of Zambia JICA Fellowship Association, ZAJIFA, since 1998, promoting mutual understanding between Zambia and Japan.

　　Over 30 guests from the Government of Zambia, University of Zambia, JICA and Hokkaido University attended the ceremony and congratulated the recipients for their award. The function also provided them with a good opportunity for sharing opinions of academic exchange and joint research.

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