India-Tanzania maritime drill attracts 9 nations

DAR ES SALAAM: INDIAN Navy has partnered with the Tanzania Peoples Defence Force (TPDF) to launch Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement’ (AIKEYME), a joint exercise that will also include eight other countries of Africa.

The maritime exercise will officially take place next week. The inaugural multilateral maritime exercise aims to bolster maritime security and foster cooperation between the Indian Navy and African nations.

Week-long exercise will include navies and maritime agencies from nine African countries, Tanzania as a host, Comoros, Djibouti, Kenya, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles,and  South Africa, will join the Indian Navy in a unique demonstration of solidarity and seamanship.

This was addressed today by the Indian High Commission Spokesperson Lakshay Anand.

 He noted AIKEYME, which derives its name from the Sanskrit word for “Unity,” underscores the belief that maritime security must be collective, cooperative, and regionally led.

‘’This initiative is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, known as MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions), which seeks to promote security and growth across the Indian Ocean region,’’ he said

He added as regional nations face a widening spectrum of maritime challenges ranging from piracy and illegal fishing to trafficking and climate-induced disruptions there is growing recognition that no nation can secure these waters alone.

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AIKEYME recognises this connection, not as a concept, but as a course of action. It is a step forward in regional leadership, operational trust, and maritime diplomacy that is rooted in equality, professionalism, and shared goals.