Key Facts
• Mayor Kazufumi Onishi addressed various topics in a year-end special interview.
• Expansion of ‘Baby Post’ and ‘Confidential Birth’ services to Tokyo and Osaka in 2025.
• Osaka’s Izumisano City plans to implement ‘Confidential Birth’ by 2026.
• Kumamoto City to share expertise on ensuring anonymity for women in such programs.
• 2026 marks the 10th anniversary of the Kumamoto Earthquake; events planned to raise awareness.
• Mayor Onishi reflects on his three terms: Kumamoto Earthquake, COVID-19, and urban development.
• Decision on running for re-election in 2026 to be announced at an appropriate time.
• Mayor Onishi emphasizes improving public transportation, aiming to double its usage.
• Collaboration with Governor Takashi Kimura on transportation and infrastructure development.
• Mayor Onishi recently launched a YouTube channel to enhance communication with citizens.
Summary
In a year-end interview, Kumamoto Mayor Kazufumi Onishi discussed key issues, including the expansion of ‘Baby Post’ and ‘Confidential Birth’ services to major cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Kumamoto City plans to share its expertise with Osaka’s Izumisano City, which aims to implement ‘Confidential Birth’ by 2026. Reflecting on his three terms, Mayor Onishi highlighted challenges such as the Kumamoto Earthquake, the COVID-19 pandemic, and urban development. As 2026 marks the earthquake’s 10th anniversary, the city plans awareness events. Onishi also stressed the importance of improving public transportation, aiming to double its usage through initiatives like free ride days. While he has not yet decided on running for re-election, he promised to announce his decision at the right time. Collaboration with Governor Takashi Kimura on transportation and infrastructure remains a priority. Additionally, Onishi launched a YouTube channel to better connect with citizens.
