INDONESIAN AMBASSADOR CALLS FOR STRONGER ASEAN-KENYA BLUE ECONOMY PARTNERSHIP

The Indonesian Ambassador to Kenya, T.B.H. Witjaksono Adji, has urged closer ties between ASEAN countries and Kenya to develop a sustainable blue economy. He made the call while delivering a keynote speech at Daystar University’s Diplomatic Day event in Machakos County on March 11, 2026.

Ambassador Adji, who currently serves as the Chair of the ASEAN Committee (ACN) in Nairobi, spoke to an audience of about 1,000 people. Those present included government officials, diplomats, representatives from international groups, academics, civil society organisations, media, and other key stakeholders in Kenya.

The event was officially opened by Daystar University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Samuel Muriithi. Remarks were also given by Mr. Mustafa Ibrahim from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who represented Principal Secretary Dr. Abraham Korir Sing’oei. In his address, Mr. Ibrahim noted that the blue economy is a national priority for Kenya, as outlined in the country’s Blue Economy National Strategy 2025–2030.

In his speech, Ambassador Adji stressed that the ocean should be seen as a bridge, not a barrier, between Africa and Asia. He described it as a vital route for trade, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation. “Maritime security, stability, and diplomacy are essential for economic development and the sustainability of the blue economy,” the Ambassador said.

He also pointed to existing cooperation under ASEAN, including regional efforts focused on sustainable fisheries, tourism, and marine energy. Indonesia, as an archipelagic nation, plays an active role in promoting these initiatives. Through the ASEAN Blue Economy Framework (ABEF), the country supports sustainable fisheries and renewable energy projects.

The ambassador added that Indonesia shares its experience with African nations through South-South Cooperation. This includes sharing knowledge on fisheries management and coastal development.

The event also featured a panel discussion with experts including Ambassador Nancy Karigithu, Kenya’s Special Envoy for Maritime Affairs, and representatives from Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Other panellists came from groups such as the ICRC and the International Maritime Organization.

Discussions focused on maritime security, blue economy policies, and ways to boost prosperity through cooperation. According to Farhan Faruq, Third Secretary at the Indonesian Embassy, the panel provided a platform for sharing different perspectives on these issues.

Mirza Zen, also a Third Secretary at the Embassy, said the event helped build a shared understanding of the need for stronger cooperation. He noted that such partnerships should not only involve African countries but also extend to ASEAN and other Asian nations.