SA defence advisor Brigadier General Kevin Moonsamy honoured with award in India

South African defence advisor Brigadier General Kevin Moonsamy, 58, has been recognised by the Asia Book of Records as the first Defence Advisor of Indian origin from South Africa to India.

Moonsamy, a highly decorated military officer, has served at the South African High Commission in New Delhi since July 2022.

During his four-year posting, the veteran officer, who has dedicated 39 years to national service, has played a pivotal role in strengthening military diplomacy, fostering bilateral defence cooperation and deepening strategic ties between South Africa and India.

His achievement was recognised by the World Records Union, with the Asia Book of Records confirming the honour on July 1, 2026.

Reflecting on his journey, Moonsamy said his humble upbringing inspired him to aim higher.

“I grew up in a rural village, and I watched people who went to work, but they had no vision due to the circumstances they faced on a daily basis. They just went to the sugar mills, clothing factory, or they went to serve in hotels, but they aspired for greater things for their children, especially in education.

“When I looked at this opportunity, I knew that I needed to be an example for the beloved people of South Africa,” Moonsamy said. “I grew up mostly in Phoenix, and my mom was a machinist in a factory, and my dad was a barman. Watching them just continue working and putting food on the table was mentally exhausting,” Moonsamy said.

“I said, I cannot continue in that vein. I had to work harder so that my family and future generations would also strive to become better.

“And I think my mom was very instrumental in my upbringing, and she never got a chance to see her son in India. She left the earth as a very proud mom. You have to strive for better… If you have the right attitude, the right ‘hustle’ and you are disciplined, you’ll go further.”

His commitment to service has also influenced his family. His son, Sven, followed in his footsteps and serves in the South African Air Force, while his daughter, Serenell, is a teacher in South Korea.

Moonsamy met his wife, Janessa, while serving in the Air Force. She put her career on hold to support his diplomatic posting in India and has worked alongside him in the diplomatic corps.

“Every step that I’ve taken was a step in the right direction, thanks to my family’s support. My wife and my children were my pillar of strength. I want my children to look at me and, be proud to have me as their dad. I am grateful for their support.”

Growing up in Phoenix, KwaZulu-Natal, Moonsamy believed a military career offered him the opportunity to rise above his circumstances.

He joined the South African Navy in 1987. Under apartheid, opportunities in other branches of the military were restricted, and he enlisted in the navy’s SAS Jalsena Corps, the designated unit for South Africans of Indian descent.

In 1989, he transferred to the South African Air Force. By 1996, he had become the first Air Force drill and physical training instructor of Indian descent.

He steadily rose through the ranks, serving in several senior positions, including chief instructor at the Air Force College in 2008 and commanding officer in 2011. He was promoted to brigadier-general in 2017.

Asked how he felt about the recognition, Moonsamy said: “As a soldier, you don’t look for awards or accolades. You serve your country, and if you are given a pat on the back, you accept it gracefully.

“I don’t go out there to impress people. It’s all about character. Your character will speak for itself.”

During his posting in India, Moonsamy was also elected to leadership positions within the diplomatic community.

“When I got into India, I was elected into a leadership role by the Foreign Service. I was the deputy dean, and then I became the dean of defence attachés in New Delhi with a representation of 72 countries and 118 members.

Reflecting on his experience working with the Indian Armed Forces, Moonsamy praised their patriotism.

“Working with the Indian Armed Forces, what I learned from them, they are very patriotic and professional soldiers. They will die in protecting their country. They respect their flag as every citizen should. They face national security threats even worse than ours.

“These soldiers will protect their borders at all costs… They are well respected. It is loyalty and devotion to country.”

Moonsamy said serving South Africa in India had reinforced his appreciation for his homeland.

“South Africa is so great. We have all the resources and people power, but I think we’re not managing them as well. Only when you go outside will you find that yearning, that love for South Africa.”

South Africa’s High Commissioner to India, Professor Anil Sooklal, praised Moonsamy’s contribution to strengthening defence ties between the two countries.

“He played an important role in deepening that relationship and the respect he commanded, which put South Africa in a very positive light, not just with India, but all of the countries that he interacted with and that are represented here have a high regard for him,” Sooklal said.

theolin.tembo@inl.co.za