The ambassador made the remarks during a meeting with William Ruto, the Managing Director of the Kenya Ports Authority, where both sides discussed ways to deepen economic cooperation and expand commercial exchanges between the two countries.
“I am pleased with the growth and efficiency of the Port of Mombasa. It has positioned itself as a reliable gateway for trade in East Africa, serving many neighbouring countries,” Adji said.
A strategic gateway for regional trade
The Port of Mombasa is the largest and busiest seaport in East Africa and serves as a critical transit corridor for landlocked economies across the region.
Cargo moving through the facility supplies not only Kenya, but also neighbouring markets such as Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, South Sudan, and parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Adji said Indonesia views the port as a critical route for reaching these markets and plans to strengthen its commercial footprint in the region through expanded shipping activity.
Trade between Kenya and Indonesia has remained steady over the years. Kenya exports agricultural products such as tea and coffee to the Southeast Asian economy, while importing Indonesian goods including palm oil, textiles, and manufactured products.
Ruto welcomed Indonesia’s interest in expanding trade through the port, saying the partnership could unlock broader economic opportunities.
“We are pleased to extend our collaboration and advance bilateral and multilateral engagements. We look forward to deepening these ties further and unlocking new bilateral agreements that will enhance cooperation,” he said.
Analysts say greater Indonesian use of Mombasa could strengthen the port’s role as a regional logistics hub while reinforcing Kenya’s position as a key gateway for trade into East and Central Africa.
