INDONESIAN EMBASSY IN NAIROBI SHOWCASES NATION’S SPIRIT AT DIPLOMATIC RECEPTION

The Indonesian Embassy in Nairobi hosted a Diplomatic Reception at the J.W. Marriott Hotel on August 7, 2025, to enhance relationship of Indonesia to the Kenya. 

The event was held in honour of Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day anniversary, served as a platform to promote the nation’s economic, cultural, and educational offerings while strengthening bilateral ties.

His Excellency Ambassador Witjaksono Adji of Indonesia addressed the attendees on the partnership between Indonesia and Kenya, founded on shared goals of justice, sustainability, and inclusive growth. He detailed expanding cooperation in trade, investment, green energy, and agriculture, and outlined Indonesia’s active role on the global stage in forums like ASEAN, the G20, and the United Nations.

Reflecting Indonesia’s foreign policy principles, Ambassador Adji reaffirmed the nation’s support for the Palestinian people and the Two-State Solution. “Tonight, we celebrate more than independence; we celebrate the remarkable journey of a nation that has become the world’s third-largest democracy and a leading G20 economy. We dedicate this celebration to the enduring friendship between Indonesia and Kenya—a partnership built on shared values and a shared vision for the future,” he stated.

The Ambassador also highlighted Indonesia’s forward-looking agenda under President Prabowo Subianto, emphasizing a foreign policy that is independent, non-aligned, and cooperative. “Indonesia is eager to deepen collaboration in key sectors such as manufacturing, health, and agriculture through investment and technology transfer, empowering our communities and fostering sustainable development,” he added.

Representing the Kenyan government, His Excellency Ambassador Josphat K. Maikara, Director General for Political and Diplomatic Affairs, extended congratulations on Indonesia’s 80th Independence Day. He praised the enduring legacy of the 1955 Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung, a foundational moment for the Non-Aligned Movement and South-South Cooperation that continues to inspire Indonesia-Kenya relations today.

The reception was transformed into a vibrant showcase of Indonesian culture. The audience was treated to captivating performances, including a stirring rendition of the Indonesian national anthem by a Kenyan choir from Daystar University and a dynamic demonstration of Pencak Silat, a UNESCO-recognised martial art, by practitioners of all ages. Dancers from Indonesia performed traditional dances from Betawi and Padang, mesmerising the over 300 guests in attendance.

The experience was further enriched by a sampling of authentic Indonesian cuisine, such as tumpeng rice, satay, and gado-gado, allowing guests to engage with the nation’s culinary heritage. The event concluded on a high note as attendees joyfully participated in a flashmob to popular Indonesian songs. The reception also served to promote major initiatives like the upcoming Indonesia Nairobi Expo (IndoNEX) in November 2025, which aims to connect Indonesian and Kenyan businesses and promote “Study in Indonesia” educational opportunities.

“This event is a concrete manifestation of our efforts to elevate the bilateral relationship and foster deeper cooperation in trade, investment, and socio-cultural exchange,” said Wisnu Lombardwinanto, Minister Counselor for Information, Social, and Cultural Affairs at the Embassy. “Every performance and dish served was an invitation for our Kenyan friends to explore the beauty and diversity of Indonesia.”