Who are the South Africans abducted by Israel on the Global Sumud Flotilla?
Prominent South African human rights and civil society activists were detained by Israeli authorities during a mission to break Gaza’s blockade and deliver aid.
Image: Palestine Solidarity Alliance / Instagram
South Africans were among the international activists abducted by the Israeli navy during the Global Sumud Flotilla, which sought to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The passengers, described by organisers as peace and solidarity activists, were detained after their vessels were boarded in international waters.
Nkosi Zwelivelile 'Mandla' Mandela
Mandla Mandela is an activist and the traditional chief of Mvezo, the birthplace of his grandfather, Nelson Mandela.
A long-time advocate for Palestinian rights, Mandela has often compared Israel’s policies towards Palestinians to apartheid. He joined the flotilla as part of what he described as a moral duty to uphold his grandfather's legacy of justice and international solidarity.
Carrie Shelver
Carrie Shelver is a feminist activist, researcher and long-standing advocate for gender justice and human rights in the country.
She has worked extensively in civil society, championing issues of equality, anti-discrimination and international solidarity.
Shelver has been outspoken about global struggles for justice, including the Palestinian cause, and joined the flotilla to highlight the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Zukiswa Wanner
Zukiswa Wanner is an award-winning South African writer, publisher and cultural activist.
She is recognised across the continent for her literary work and commitment to Pan-Africanism.
Wanner was the first African woman to receive the Goethe Medal for cultural contributions and has been a vocal advocate for social justice and solidarity with Palestine.
Zaheera Soomar
Zaheera Soomar is an education specialist and activist with years of experience working in both civil society and academic spaces.
She has been active in campaigns for access to quality education, gender equality and social justice. Soomar has also engaged in international solidarity work, joining the flotilla as part of her commitment to challenging oppression and amplifying the voices of marginalised communities in Gaza.
Dr Fatima Hendricks
Dr Hendricks is an occupational therapist and social justice advocate.
She has worked to provide support and rehabilitation for individuals in vulnerable communities and has been active in humanitarian and solidarity initiatives.
Hendricks joined the flotilla to stand with Palestinians facing severe humanitarian conditions under the blockade, highlighting the urgent need for access to health care and rehabilitation services in Gaza.
Reaz Moola
Moola is an activist engaged in social justice and international solidarity campaigns. He has been active in advocacy around Palestine, amplifying calls for human rights and accountability.
Moola joined the flotilla to support efforts to break the blockade of Gaza and to stand with Palestinians facing ongoing humanitarian and political crises.
Beyond this, he has worked with grassroots organisations in South Africa to promote awareness of global injustices and has spoken publicly on the intersections of domestic inequality and international solidarity movements.