On Tuesday, August 26, 2025, the Russian Federation Embassy in the Republic of South Africa hosted an award ceremony for Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, Chief of the South African Navy, at the Embassy in Pretoria.
During the ceremony, His Excellency Roman Ambarov, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Russian Federation, presented a medal to Vice Admiral Lobese. The award recognised his dedication to strengthening military cooperation, significantly contributing to the development of partnership and mutual trust between the two nations and their armed forces.
In his speech, Ambassador Ambarov emphasised that the award was more than a personal accolade. It symbolised how the contribution of a single individual can foster closer ties between states, build trust and strengthen international cooperation. He described the medal as a sign of acknowledgment, respect and support for progress and success between South Africa and Russia.
Vice Admiral Lobese expressed gratitude to the Russian government, noting that the award reflected not only his personal commitment but also the dedication of all South African naval personnel. He highlighted that the medal represents mutual trust, friendship and cooperation between the two navies, while also reflecting broader BRICS and international solidarity.
Recalling his formative military training in the former USSR from 1987 to 1991, Vice Admiral Lobese credited the experience with shaping his naval career, eventually leading to his appointment as the third Chief of the South African Navy after the integration of the South African National Defence Force. He stressed the importance of military partnerships in advancing global peace and security, underlining the value of joint exercises, training and exchanges between South Africa and Russia, which foster operational readiness and enduring friendships.
Addressing recent challenges surrounding a Russian Navy training ship’s port visit to Cape Town, Vice Admiral Lobese assured Russian authorities that measures were being taken to prevent similar incidents. He invited Russian vessels to make use of South Africa’s Simon’s Town and Durban naval bases for future visits, confirming that Russian ships will be welcomed in November during the upcoming BRICS Maritime Exercise.
The SA Navy maintains a longstanding mutually beneficial relationship with the Russian Navy through the BRICS nations, often conducting bilateral exercises and skills exchange programmes that demonstrate the strong naval bond between the two forces.
Vice Admiral Lobese was accompanied by his wife, Rear Admiral Nkomonde, Rear Admirals (Junior Grade) Du Toit and Bongco and Captains Pieterse, Mahloana, Magonono and Dulamo. Concluding his remarks, Vice Admiral Lobese reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening naval cooperation with Russia, envisioning a future built on respect, security and shared objectives.
