Japanese Ambassador to Namibia, Shinichi Asazuma, has conferred the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star on former Namibian Ambassador to Japan Sophia Namupa Nangombe in Windhoek, recognising her efforts in promoting educational, cultural and economic cooperation between Namibia and Japan.

During her tenure from 2013 to 2018, Nangombe introduced Namibia and Africa to young Japanese people through university lectures, helping to promote educational cooperation.

In 2016, she also co-hosted the Namibia-Japan Business Seminar with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) contributing to stronger economic ties.

"I strongly hope that today's honour will serve as an opportunity to convey the importance of the bond with Japan to even more Namibian people and that the friendly and the cooperative relations between our two countries will develop further. I would like to offer my wish for the health and happiness of Ambassador Nangonbe, as well as the continued prosperity of the Republic of Namibia," stated Japan's Ambassador to Namibia, Shinichi Asazuma.

Asazuma says Nangombe's contribution extended beyond her diplomatic tenure.

She continued promoting Japanese culture in Namibia, participated in cultural events, including kendo, and encouraged former Japanese government-sponsored international students, helping to build lasting connections between the two nations.

Following the conferment, Nangombe expressed gratitude for the recognition.

"This recognition beautifully crowns the legacy of my years in public service. When I look back on a lifetime devoted to the foreign service, seeing it capped by an honour from a country I admire so deeply and respect so profoundly is more than I could have envisioned when my career first began."

Nangombe's diplomatic service helped strengthen ties across education, culture and trade, while laying a foundation for continued cooperation between the two countries.
Nangombe becomes the second Namibian to receive the honour, following the late Dr Theo-Ben Gurirab.