Indonesian President Joko Widodo’s visit to Kenya strengthens Global South solidarity and cooperation

In a bid to fortify solidarity and cooperation among developing nations, President Joko Widodo of Indonesia visited Kenya, marking the first time an Indonesian president has set foot on African soil.

The visit holds significant importance as both countries, representing the Global South, share historical ties and common values.

Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi highlighted the purpose of President Jokowi’s visit, emphasizing the need to amplify the voices and interests of developing nations.

Kenya, situated in the sub-Saharan African region, has been identified as a crucial partner for Indonesia. Foreign Minister Retno referred to Kenya as an essential ally in the sub-Saharan African region, emphasizing the nation’s role in the Bandung Spirit, a historical movement that aimed to foster collaboration and cooperation among non-aligned countries.

Speaking alongside Kenyan President William Ruto during a joint press statement, President Jokowi extended an invitation to Kenya to reinvigorate the Bandung Spirit.

This spirit, rooted in the principles of non-alignment and cooperation among nations of the Global South, holds the potential to facilitate the advancement of shared development goals.

Jokowi reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to support Kenya’s development

“Amid the clamor of global politics, it is high time that the voices and aspirations of developing nations are heard, including the aspiration for progress that leads to better welfare for our people,” asserted Foreign Minister Retno, quoted from the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as reported by ANTARA, Monday (21 Aug), echoing President Jokowi’s sentiment.

During bilateral discussions with President Ruto, President Jokowi reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to support Kenya’s development in various sectors.

Notably, the focus was on healthcare, food security, and disaster management. The visit resulted in the establishment of 15 collaborations, encompassing government-to-government initiatives, partnerships with state-owned enterprises, and private-sector engagements.

Among the significant outcomes were three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed between Indonesia and Kenya. These agreements encompassed the energy sector, mining and geology, and pharmaceuticals.

Furthermore, the two countries committed to a letter of intent (LoI) for promoting and facilitating investment opportunities.

Retno Marsudi, the Indonesian Foreign Minister.

11 MoUs signed to cement cross-sector collaboration

The cooperation extended beyond governmental interactions. Notably, 11 MoUs and agreements were inked, involving both state-owned enterprises and private-sector entities.

Pertamina Geothermal Energy signed two MoUs related to geothermal energy, while Pertamina, Indonesia’s state-owned energy company, engaged in an MoU for upstream oil and gas collaboration.

Additionally, agreements were reached in pharmaceutical product penetration by Biofarma and Combiphar, a pharmaceutical company originating from Indonesia.

Furthermore, there is an MoU related to domestic meat supply support; an MoU concerning a joint venture for palm oil plantations, refineries, and marketing of palm and its derivatives; an MoU related to joint investment for textile industry development; an MoU concerning exploration and mining development in Kenya; and a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) related to upstream oil and gas exploration collaboration by Pertamina.

The visit held a distinct significance in the broader context of Indonesia’s international engagements. President Jokowi’s tour encompassed not only Kenya but also Tanzania, Mozambique, and South Africa. This marks a milestone, as Indonesia actively seeks to bolster its ties with African nations.

Reported by Kompas.com, several foreign media outlets covered President Jokowi’s visit to Africa. BNN Breaking news agency based in Toronto, Canada, published an article titled “Indonesian president to attend BRICS summit in South Africa” on Sunday.

Meanwhile, the South China Morning Post (SCMP) featured an article titled “Indonesia’s Joko Widodo to attend BRICS summit in South Africa amid expansion speculation” on their website.

Both articles mentioned that President Jokowi’s visit to South Africa occurred amidst speculation about Indonesia’s potential membership as the newest BRICS member.

The BRICS summit is scheduled to span three days starting Tuesday (22 Aug), with the participation of leading major developing countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China, and host South Africa.

President Jokowi previously stated that the Indonesian government had not yet decided whether to join BRICS or not. AFP noted that BRICS, established in 2009, is striving to counter the economic dominance of Western countries in global affairs. T

The group represents 23 percent of the world’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and 42 percent of the global population.