I recently had the honour of attending the Second Indonesia-Africa Forum, a gathering that celebrates the deep and enduring bonds between our regions, allowing us, as friends and partners committed to solidarity and inclusive development, to discuss the best ways to chart a new course for our future cooperation.
The potential of our regions is immense. We also know that by working together, we can achieve far more than we can alone.
The partnership between Indonesia and Africa has deep roots, dating back to the historic 1955 Asia-Africa Conference in Bandung. That conference united leaders from our newly independent nations, resolved to oppose colonialism, assert our sovereignty, and build a fairer world amid superpower rivalry.
The Bandung Conference laid the foundation for the Non-Aligned Movement and, later, the New Asian-African Strategic Partnership (NAASP). There is a certain symmetry between 1955 and 2024.
Once again, we must join forces to protect our interests.
The struggle today is for economic development and global influence. It is about ensuring a better quality of life for our people and being active participants in global decision-making, not mere subjects of decisions made by others. This shared objective—to create a fairer world where the voices of the Global South are respected—remains central to our partnership.
The economic relationship between Indonesia and Africa has grown significantly, with trade reaching USD 7.66 billion in 2016. However, this represents only a fraction of the potential that exists.
In comparison, trade between the US and China exceeds USD 600 billion annually. Clearly, there is much more that we can and must do.
Africa is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies, with a young population set to become the largest workforce globally by 2034.
Indonesia, with its strategic location, abundant natural resources, and vibrant economy, is projected to become the world’s fourth-largest economy by 2050.
The question is: How can we elevate our economic partnership to new heights?
The first and most crucial step is to invest in our people, our greatest resource. By prioritising vocational training, higher education, and knowledge exchange programmes, we can equip young people with the skills needed to thrive in a digital, interconnected world.
In Indonesia, education and skills training have been transformative in driving economic development. One of my flagship proposals during the presidential campaign, which I will implement immediately upon taking office, is the provision of free, nutritious school lunches for children.
This is not just a moral measure; it is a long-term investment in our people. By ensuring children are well-nourished and focused on their studies, we can improve educational outcomes and create a more skilled generation that enjoys better living standards.
Second, infrastructure is essential—investment in roads, ports, energy, and telecommunications is crucial to facilitate trade, attract investment, and improve citizens’ quality of life. Indonesia’s experience in infrastructure development offers valuable lessons for all developing countries. By working together, we can build the infrastructure needed for sustainable development and economic growth.
Blended finance presents a unique opportunity. By combining public and private sector funds, we can mobilise significant capital for these crucial projects.
Indonesia is committed to promoting blended finance initiatives, particularly through the G20 Bali Global Blended Finance Alliance. This alliance aims to scale blended finance for developing countries, modernise the development finance system, and foster South-South cooperation to support climate action and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Innovation and entrepreneurship are also key drivers of economic growth. We must foster a culture of innovation and support start-ups and small businesses. By fostering innovation and creating a dynamic economic environment, we can generate jobs, boost productivity, and drive sustainable development.
Finally, we must strengthen our trade relations.
It is time to expand and deepen traditional trade partnerships in areas like mining, oil, and gas, while exploring new opportunities for cooperation in the digital economy, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. Enhancing trade and investment between our regions will create jobs, boost economic growth, and improve livelihoods.
As we pursue these objectives, we must advocate for a fair global economy, one where the concerns of the Global South are respected.
For too long, the Global South has been marginalised in global economic decision-making. We must push for reforms in international financial institutions, promote fair trade practices, and ensure our voices are heard in global economic forums.
We also need reform in global governance structures, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to better reflect the realities of the 21st century.
The current structure often sidelines the Global South, leaving our concerns underrepresented. The Security Council must include permanent seats for countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America to ensure fair representation and foster a more democratic global order.
Indonesia is committed to advocating for the Global South and promoting a fairer global economy. Together, we can ensure our regions’ voices are respected and that we are not mere spectators in a world where decisions are made without considering our interests.
The Second Indonesia-Africa Forum is a powerful reminder of the bonds that unite us and the immense potential for cooperation and growth.
Together, Indonesia and Africa can strengthen our influence in international relations and ensure that our voices are heard globally.
Let us seize this moment to work together and build a brighter future for all.
 Prabowo Subianto is the President-Elect of the Indonesia. The article reflects the author’s opinions and not necessarily those of The Southern African Times.
