Kenya, Indonesia forge new partnership to boost mining, maritime sectors
By Kiprono Keileb, October 9, 2025Kenya and Indonesia are strengthening their collaboration in key sectors, including mining, the blue economy, and maritime affairs, following a high-level meeting between Mining Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho and the Indonesian Ambassador to Kenya, Excellency Witjaksono Adji.
Joho, in a statement on his X account posted on Thursday, October 9, 2025, described the meeting as insightful, noting that both sides explored ways to enhance partnership frameworks aimed at driving sustainable development and fostering mutual growth in critical sectors.
A key part of the discussions focused on training and capacity-building programs for Kenyans, particularly in value addition within mining, maritime, and blue economy industries. Joho emphasised the importance of equipping Kenyans with skills to maximise opportunities in these sectors.
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“We shared great ideas on enhancing partnership frameworks to drive sustainable development and foster mutual growth in these critical areas,” Joho said, adding that boosting local capacity will ensure Kenyans benefit more from the country’s natural resources and maritime potential.
The meeting also touched on Kenya’s ongoing bid to be elected to Category C of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), an initiative aimed at increasing the country’s role in global maritime governance. According to Joho, this ambition reflects Kenya’s commitment to actively shaping international maritime policies.
In addition, the discussions covered Kenya’s preparations to host the 11th edition of the Our Ocean Conference, a platform designed to advance ocean action and strengthen international collaboration. “We explored Kenya’s preparations to host the 11th edition of the Our Ocean Conference, which will serve as a pivotal platform for advancing ocean action and fostering international collaboration,” Joho stated in a statement.
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Joho highlighted the conference as a critical opportunity for Kenya to showcase its maritime initiatives and deepen partnerships with global stakeholders.
“The discussions were centred on scaling up training and capacity-building programs, emphasising value addition within the mining, blue economy, and maritime sectors,” Joho said.
Kenya’s growing collaboration with Indonesia is seen as part of broader efforts to position the country as a key player in maritime governance and sustainable development. By focusing on skill-building and strategic partnerships, the government aims to ensure that the country’s natural resources benefit local communities while contributing to global economic growth.
Joho’s announcement underscores Kenya’s commitment to proactive engagement in international partnerships and highlights the country’s drive to leverage its maritime and mining potential for sustainable growth.