As malaria continues to pose a health concern in some parts of the country, a former Japanese volunteer, Kumi Ono, has made it her mission to stand with communities in the Zambezi Region in the fight against the disease. 

Ono first came to Namibia in 2016 as a volunteer under the Japan International Cooperation Agency for two years. 

At the time, she volunteered to teach arts, physical education, and sports at Outjo Primary School.

Ono said she fell in love with Namibia and its people, and after her volunteering contract ended, she decided to return under the Namibia-Japan Project. 

She stated that her stay in Namibia has been shaped by the people and experiences she encountered along the way. 

"I had a friend in Katima, and when I visited her, I got sick and went to the hospital. The patient in the same room as me had malaria and unfortunately passed away, which was an experience I had never encountered in Japan, leaving me deeply shocked. Since that moment, I resolved to start something to prevent malaria in Katima. In Japan, I began introducing Namibia as a beautiful country with kind people, organised an event, collected donations, and brought them to Katima."

Ono is also volunteering at the Mandume Welfare Organisation, which helps create a safe and caring home for vulnerable children. 

When she returns home, Ono makes use of her time in Japan to promote Namibia and its diverse culture. 

"I am doing these small projects by myself because the reason why I do this is I really love Namibia, and I really appreciate Namibian people; they are good people with beautiful minds, and I love many things about Namibian people, so I will keep visiting and supporting."

Ono believes that through her continued efforts and acts of kindness, she will inspire people in Japan and Namibia to join her in building healthier communities and helping vulnerable children.