Around ten South Africans are preparing to join the largest civilian flotilla bound for Gaza this week, in a mission aimed at challenging Israel’s blockade of the besieged territory.
Leading the South African delegation is activist and grandson of Nelson Mandela, Mandla Mandela, who will be joining the Global Sumud Flotilla, a fleet of 50 vessels from around 44 countries carrying vital humanitarian supplies, including food, medical aid, and baby formula.
Speaking to VOC News ahead of his departure, Mandela said preparations for the journey had been extensive.
“We have had to prepare ourselves immensely for this trip from previous experiences. With the Freedom Flotilla, we were prevented from sailing with the flag withdrawn. Many of us from South Africa have already departed for training in Tunisia, where we will join the flotilla on Thursday, the 4th. We are hopeful that we will all be on international waters by the 5th of September.”
The mission, which set sail from Barcelona on Monday, has drawn international attention, with figures such as Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and American actress Susan Sarandon among its supporters.
Despite delays caused by storms, the flotilla is expected to regroup in Tunisia before making its way towards Gaza.
The effort comes at a time of heightened global solidarity with Palestine, as South Africa pursues its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Listen to the full interview with Mandla Mandela below:
VOC News
Photo: VOCfm
