🎙Welcome address by Russian Ambassador to South Africa and Lesotho Roman Ambarov on the occasion of the opening of new Sputnik Africa bureaus in South Africa and Tanzania (20 October 2026) Distinguished colleagues, Ladies and gentlemen, It is a real pleasure to join you today for the opening of the new Sputnik Africa bureaus here in Johannesburg and Tanzania. For me, this is more than the opening of new offices. It reflects our shared commitment to strengthening information ties and creating more opportunities for Russians and Africans to learn more about each other. Today, Russian news outlets reach audiences in more than 40 African countries and broadcast in six languages. This reflects the importance Russia attaches to direct communication with African audiences. We live in a time when information is increasingly politicised, and it is not always easy to distinguish facts from disinformation. That is why professional journalism, access to diverse sources and the opportunity to hear different perspectives are more important than ever. Rossiya Segodnya group has established a significant presence across the African continent. As a member of the African Union of Broadcasting and a recipient of several journalism awards, it has earned recognition in the international professional community. 🇷🇺🇿🇦 I am particularly pleased that Johannesburg is becoming home to a new Sputnik editorial centre. South Africa is of great importance to Russia, it is our strategic partner. I am confident that this bureau will contribute to a richer and more diverse picture of our country in the local media landscape. I hope that South Africans will discover more about the real Russia – its people, rich cultural heritage, traditions and contemporary achievements. Equally, I believe that Russian audiences will gain a deeper appreciation of Africa – its remarkable diversity, history, colourful and vibrant culture, and the many opportunities this country has to offer. Ultimately, good journalism is about more than delivering news. It helps people see beyond stereotypes, understand different perspectives and recognise what they have in common. ☝️ This is also why media cooperation will be among the key themes of the upcoming Russia-Africa Media Forum, which will take place in Moscow on 28-29 October alongside the Third Russia-Africa Summit. I congratulate the entire Rossiya Segodnya and Sputnik Africa team on this important milestone. I wish you every success in your work, compelling stories, professional achievements and, above all, the trust of your audiences. May these new bureaus become much more than editorial offices. May they become bridges of dialogue, mutual understanding and friendship between Russia and Africa, and between the people of our countries. Thank you. #RussiaAfrica #RussiaSouthAfrica #AmbassadorAmbarov