Cape Town – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) says the South Africans detained by Israeli forces, including Nkosi Zwelivelile (Mandla) Mandela, are in good health and “high spirits” despite their abduction.
Mandela, the grandson of Nelson Mandela, was among activists on the Global Sumud Flotilla intercepted by Israeli naval forces on Wednesday.
Other South Africans held include Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, Zaheera Soomar, and Dr Fatima Hendricks. Israel claimed the flotilla breached a naval blockade near Gaza, while the activists called the interception illegal and “a brazen act of desperation.”
Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri confirmed that a South African team met the detainees at the Negev Prison and that arrangements for their safe return are underway.
MEDIA STATEMENT | Update on the Welfare of Flotilla Delegates pic.twitter.com/ZVeSy5c9X2
— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) October 5, 2025
“Today (Sunday), our specialist team met with the South African delegation at the Negev Israeli Prison facility.
“The delegation has confirmed the detainees are in good health and in high spirits. The necessary procedures for their safe passage and return home to South Africa are advancing steadily,” Phiri said.
Mandla Mandela’s wife, Nosekeni Rabia Mandela, said the family is emotional and anxious, as they had no contact with him since before the abduction.
Speaking to SABC News, a visibly distressed Nosekeni Mandela described the ordeal as a “very difficult time” for the Mandela family, urging South Africans and the international community to rally for the safe release of her husband and other activists on board.
WATCH | Nosekeni Mandela, Mandla Mandela’s wife, is pleading for the safe return of her husband, who is one of the South Africans on the flotilla intercepted by Israeli forces, heading to Gaza carrying aid. She adds that it has been a very difficult time for the family. pic.twitter.com/gzWDNywWsh
— SABC News (@SABCNews) October 3, 2025
“It’s a very challenging time, but we are trying to be very strong for my children, and we have to stay strong to ensure he is returned to us safely, Nosekeni said.
“We are very scared for his safety and we just pray that he is returned to us.”
Mandla, who is the grandson of former president Nelson Mandela and chief of the Mvezo Traditional Council, has long been a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause. He has publicly compared the plight of Palestinians to apartheid South Africa, calling for international solidarity and humanitarian relief efforts.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
