‘Finally coming home! Nosekeni Mandela Celebrates husband’s release

Cape Town – Nosekeni Rabia Mandela has expressed immense relief after confirmation that her husband, activist Mandla Mandela, and other South Africans detained in Israel will soon be released.

The group had been detained while participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla, which delivers aid to Gaza.

According to IOL, Mandela praised the efforts of the GSF legal team, Adalah, local support crews, and South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) in securing their release.

Dirco confirmed that the delegation will be repatriated via Jordan, with Minister Ronald Lamola thanking all parties involved and reaffirming the government’s commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad.

MEDIA STATEMENT | Update on the Welfare of Flotilla Delegates pic.twitter.com/ZVeSy5c9X2

— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) October 5, 2025

Meanwhile, the Israeli embassy confirmed on Monday that all South African activists detained last week will be released on Tuesday.

The group was intercepted on the GSF Flotilla while attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza.

In response to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s call for their release, the embassy stated on X that the activists would be expelled via Jordan, adding that South African taxpayers would cover the cost of their deportation.

Mr. President @CyrilRamaphosa:

We trust @DIRCO_ZA has informed you that all South Africans who tried to enter illegally will be expelled tomorrow via Jordan.

As always, it’s the South African taxpayers who get the honor of paying for their fellow citizens’ deportation tickets. https://t.co/H9R0pkjbvQ

— Embassy of Israel SA (@IsraelinSA) October 6, 2025