The Japanese Government has donated 30 pre-owned musical instruments to the Malawi Police Service to boost the capacity of the nation’s iconic Police Band.
Handed over through Japan’s Association of International Music Exchange for Children (Aimec), the event was held at the National Police Headquarters in Lilongwe and was attended by Inspector General (IG) of Police Richard Luhanga, AIMEC representative Sosuke Sasaki, senior police officers, government officials and Japanese Ambassador Natio Yasushi.
Naito described the donation as a “symbol of friendship and collaboration” and praised Aimec’s mission to “export peace” through music.
“Music is a universal language that inspires hope, nurtures talent and brings people together,” he said.
Established in the 1970s, the Malawi Police Band has played a central role in national ceremonies and public engagement.
On his part, Luhanga said the donation will expand the band’s reach, enabling performances in both Northern and Southern regions and enhancing its role in crime prevention messaging.
He said: “This band is the embodiment of the Malawi Police Service and Malawi as a nation.
“These instruments will help us engage communities more effectively and spread important messages through music.”
The donation builds on Japan’s previous support, including a 2012 contribution of instruments worth K34.8 million which remain in use today.
