SA government denies funding repatriation of Flotilla activists

Zuko Komisa

South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) denied providing government funds for the repatriation of its citizens detained aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF).
The department clarified that the return of the activists, including Mandla Mandela, was financed by their families and solidarity groups, with the government only offering diplomatic assistance.
The flotilla, intercepted by the Israeli navy, aimed to deliver humanitarian aid and raise awareness about the urgent needs in the Gaza Strip.

The SA Governemnt has clarified that it did not cover the costs of bringing home South African activists detained in Israel after their participation in the Global Sumud Flotilla (GSF).

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) confirmed that the activists’ return was facilitated by financial support from their respective families and various solidarity groups.

DIRCO stated: “The South African Government’s role has been one of diplomatic facilitation and engagement with all relevant parties,” rejecting earlier claims that state funds were used for the journey home.

The South Africans—who include prominent figures such as Nkosi Zwelivelile Mandla Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner, Reaaz Moolla, Zaheera Soomar, Fatima Hendricks, and Carrie Shelver—safely landed in Jordan yesterday, where they were welcomed by South Africa’s Ambassador, Tselane Mokuena.

The delegation was expected to arrive at OR Tambo International Airport this morning.