Grandson of Mandela Expresses Intent to Board Aid Vessel Sailing to Gaza

In an unprecedented show of solidarity, a diverse group of activists, including Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela, grandson of South Africa's anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela, have joined forces to participate in the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla. This flotilla aims to break the Israeli blockade of the Gaza Strip.

The boat that departed from Barcelona on August 31, 2025, with Thunberg and other activists on board, is named the "Family Boat" and is part of the Global Sumud Flotilla mission. The flotilla, initially scheduled to set sail on Sunday, had its departure postponed due to bad weather.

Mandla Mandela, in remarks to journalists in Tunis, stated that the South African delegation joined the flotilla to emphasize Africa's role in the struggle for Palestinian rights. He also highlighted that the Maghreb Sumud Flotilla's participants share a shared understanding of occupation and oppression, as Africans.

The Maghreb Sumud Flotilla is an African initiative aimed at supporting the Palestinian cause. About 100 activists have registered to join the flotilla from Tunis. The organisers have not yet confirmed the place and time of departure for the flotilla.

The departure of the flotilla from Barcelona marks a significant action towards breaking the Israeli blockade of Gaza, which is an additional effort to challenge the ongoing Israeli policies. Mandla Mandela's participation in the flotilla underscores ongoing international efforts to support Palestinian rights and challenge Israeli policies.

The Maghreb Sumud Flotilla is not alone in its mission. It is aiming to join other boats that have already left from Spain and Italy. The Global Sumud Flotilla, based in Tunisia, is scheduled to set sail as soon as conditions permit.

This flotilla, led by influential figures like Thunberg and Mandela, serves as a testament to the global community's commitment to upholding the rights of the Palestinian people and challenging oppressive policies. As the flotilla continues its journey, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a successful mission that will bring hope to the people of Gaza.