KBRN, Jakarta: Efforts by the Indonesian Embassy in Yaoundé, Cameroon, also accredited to the Republic of Congo, have shed light on the vulnerabilities faced by Indonesian migrant workers in Central Africa. 

During a week-long Safari Outreach program from November 30 to December 5, 2025, embassy officials discovered that many Indonesians employed in Congo are working without written contracts, leaving them exposed to potential disputes.

The outreach team traveled across southern Congo, covering Brazzaville, the port city of Pointe-Noire, and industrial hubs such as Dolisie and Mila-Mila. Their mission was to reach nearly 200 Indonesian migrant workers employed in sectors including timber, tourism, construction, and oil and gas.

Second Secretary of the Embassy, Anindita Aji Pratama, explained that dialog sessions revealed around 60 percent of workers lacked formal contracts. “It is crucial to work under written agreements and to participate in BPJS Ketenagakerjaan, so that workers receive proper protection,” Anindita emphasized, as quoted on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs official website.

The program drew immediate responses from workers. Emy, a therapist in Brazzaville, expressed her intention to register for the protection scheme. Employers, meanwhile, pledged to provide written contracts, while the embassy encouraged companies to become verified partners of KBRI Yaoundé to ensure better governance in managing Indonesian workers.

Beyond legal and administrative matters, the outreach also carried symbolic significance. In Mila-Mila, 200 kilometers from Pointe-Noire, worker Yuditomo voiced heartfelt appreciation for the embassy’s visit, the first in nearly a decade. He and fellow workers welcomed not only the dialog but also the comfort of Indonesian instant noodles and snacks, easing their homesickness.

“After almost ten years, this is the first time the embassy has come here. We are truly grateful,” Yuditomo said.

The program also provided a platform for workers to openly share aspirations regarding consular services, immigration, and labor relations. Ambassador Agung Cahaya Sumirat joined virtually, encouraging workers to remain resilient and reaffirming Indonesia’s commitment to serve and protect its citizens across Central Africa. (Diffa Sephiawardhani/Sri Wahyuni)