Nonku Williams and Jojo Robinson/ Picture: X
JoJo Robinson has poured her heart out in a moving open letter to her former best friend and Real Housewives of Durban co-star, Nonku Williams.
Once celebrated for their strong bond and known by fans as “JoKu,” the pair have now gone their separate ways after five years of what JoJo describes as a “very real” and “sisterhood-filled” friendship.
Taking to Instagram, JoJo addressed the widespread speculation that their relationship had only existed for the sake of the reality show.
“Seeing comments saying this friendship didn’t matter and that it was for work is really hard to see. It was very real and it was filled with love and sisterhood,” she wrote.
In the same post, JoJo expressed sadness, forgiveness, and hope:
“Dear Nonkie Nonks, I hope you find peace and love with whoever you choose in this life. I loved every second we spent together, and I’m forever grateful for the friendship we shared. I forgive you, and I’m also sorry for any part I played that upset you… I understand now, and I’m okay.”
She ended her message by acknowledging their loyal fan base:
“To JoKu Nation… thank you for believing in love and friendship. I’m sorry we let you down.”
According to The Citizen, the friendship started unraveling during the Mauritius trip featured in Season 5, where Nonku questioned the authenticity of their connection. She dismissed it as “surface level,” and despite an emotional reunion in the water, including an impromptu attempt at spiritual baptism, the fracture deepened.
Nonku later skipped the reunion episode altogether, while JoJo was left in tears on set.
Both JoJo and Nonku have unfollowed each other on Instagram, and shared photos of their friendship have been removed. The digital silence confirmed what JoJo’s letter put into words — an end to one of the show’s most celebrated connections.
Slee Ndlovu, another RHOD cast member, shared her perspective, saying she could see JoJo was hurt and hoped the two would reconcile. Fans echoed this sentiment across platforms, offering JoJo messages of support.
First published by: African Insider
Words compiled by: Lisabeal Nqamqhele
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