South African Gaza Flotilla Activists Released, Now En Route Home

Loading player...
Six South African activists who were detained in Israel after joining the Global Sumud Flotilla have safely arrived in Jordan and are on their way home. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed the group is expected to land at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday morning. Among the delegation were Mandla Mandela, grandson of Nelson Mandela, along with Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moola, and Carrie Shelver. They were part of a 500-strong international convoy aiming to deliver humanitarian aid to war-ravaged Gaza. The flotilla was intercepted by Israeli forces last Thursday, with some activists

deported and others held in custody. DIRCO says the activists’ release and return were coordinated by families and solidarity networks. Phemelo speaks to Sunny Morgan, spokesperson for the Global Sumud Flotilla, about the experience and what comes next.
7 Oct 2025 5PM English South Africa Education · Careers

Other recent episodes

Music feature: Songs of rebirth this Easter

In this week’s music feature, musicologist Sheldon Rocha Leal explores powerful songs of renewal and rebirth as Christians mark Easter. The spotlight falls on inspiring tracks like More Than What I Wanted by CeCe Winans, Umoya Wam by Rebecca Malope, and Avuleka Amazulu by Vuyo Mokoena, all capturing the spirit…
2 Apr 5PM 23 min

#IAmWinnieMandela campaign honours her legacy

A new film and campaign are shining a spotlight on Winnie Madikizela-Mandela’s legacy, with a focus on her mental health struggles during solitary confinement. The #IAmWinnieMandela event marks the anniversary of her passing with a screening and critical conversation on trauma and resilience. Phemelo is in conversation with the Producer…
2 Apr 5PM 16 min