The event was a resounding success for international business, with thirty-two business partnership agreements worth over $3.5 billion signed at the recently concluded 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum in Bali, Indonesia. This massive financial commitment marks a historic milestone in trade relations between the two continents.
The Director of African Affairs at the Directorate General of Asian, Pacific and African Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia shared this news, highlighting the exciting economic opportunities that lie ahead for Indonesian and African businesses. Of these, sixteen agreements were signed between Indonesian SMEs and African companies, demonstrating the diversity and dynamism of the partnerships being established.
The Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, replacing President Bola Tinubu, also took part in the Forum with active and engaging participation. The President of the Nigerian Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Ishmael Balogun, led the Nigerian business delegation, signing several promising Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) throughout the event.
Over the three days of the Forum, country-specific business forums were held, focusing on industry topics such as mining, agriculture, renewable energy, healthcare and food security. These lively discussions were led by Indonesian Deputy Foreign Minister Pahala Mansury and paved the way for new opportunities for cooperation and exchange.
On the sidelines of the Forum, the 3rd edition of the Nigeria Indonesia Investment and Trade Forum 2024 (NIITF 2024) was held. The NIITF 2024 keynote address was delivered by Yomi Benson, CEO of Sahara Energy Singapore PTE Ltd., sparking thought-provoking thoughts on the economic potential between the two countries.
Notable speakers also participated in NIITF 2024, such as Oxytane International Ltd. Marketing Director Ricky Rahardja, Signature Global Real Estate CFO Abdulazeez Salawudeen, AfroKana Ltd. Managing Director Felix Ezejiogu, Seune Integrated Concepts Ltd. Managing Director Oluwaseun Ayoade, and Vutomi Energy (PTY) Ltd. CEO Timothy Simon from South Africa. These key players shared their visions and perspectives on the emerging economic opportunities and contributed to strengthening Indonesia-Africa trade ties.
In conclusion, the 2nd Indonesia-Africa Forum proved to be a fruitful platform for exchanges, paving the way for a new era of economic and trade cooperation between the two continents.These partnership agreements mark the beginning of a promising and mutually beneficial collaboration for Indonesian and African businesses and people, offering a bright and prosperous future for bilateral relations.