Foreign Ministry Highlights Importance of Friendship on Africa Day

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasised the importance of friendship and humanity during Africa Day celebrations, marked by the African Ambassadors’ Gathering and a Diplomatic Corps Friendship Football Match at GBK Madya Stadium in Jakarta on 23 May. “Football unites us beyond national borders, race, language, and politics; it reminds us that friendship and humanity are always stronger than division,” said Director General of Asia-Pacific and African Affairs at the Foreign Ministry, Dr Santo Darmosumarto, in a statement on the ministry’s website on Tuesday. The African Ambassadors’ Gathering and Friendship Football Match were attended by African ambassadors accredited to Indonesia. Africa Day, observed annually on 25 May, commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in Addis Ababa in 1963. The day marks a historic moment when newly independent African nations united to advance decolonisation, dignity, and collective progress. For Indonesia, Africa Day also celebrates the enduring friendship forged during the struggle for independence and sustained to this day. Football was chosen as a medium for celebration, given Indonesia’s long-standing ties with Africa on the pitch. From legends like Cameroon’s Roger Milla and Ghana’s Michael Essien to Pierre Njanka and Redouane Barkaoui, who became icons for local clubs over the years, Africa has long been part of Indonesian football’s DNA, the statement added. The commemorative events were part of Indonesia’s commitment to deepening engagement with Africa not only through diplomatic and economic channels but also through warm, lasting sports and people-to-people ties. Indonesia views Africa as a strategic partner and true friend in the Global South, with such celebrations serving as a reminder that international friendship is built not only in diplomatic spaces but also on the pitch.