Who We Are
What We Do
The SAZF (South African Zionist Federation) looks after matters relating to Israel and its image in South Africa. As advocates for Israel in this country, our mission is to build strong support and love for the Land and State of Israel. This support remains powerful among the SA Jewish community and millions outside the community. We work pro-actively to reduce the amount of anti-Israel sentiment in South African political, religious, and cultural communities through education, advocacy, and lobbying.
The formation of the South African Zionist Federation precedes the establishment of the State of Israel, itself. Founded in 1898, the SAZF enabled South Africa’s Jewish community to assemble over its shared love for the piece of land that is no bigger than our famed Kruger National Park. More than a century later, however, South Africa has become regarded as “Ground Zero” for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS) that was modelled on the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa.
As such, the image of Israel in the media, political sphere, and society has often been misconstrued and vilified. Yet, the global campaign against Israel – particularly in South Africa – has emboldened the SAZF to remain even more committed to defending Israel and preserving her relationship with the people of Africa.
Zionism and Education
The SAZF looks after matters relating to Israel and its image in South Africa. As advocates for Israel in this country, our mission is to build strong support and love for the Land and State of Israel. This support remains powerful among the SA Jewish community and millions outside the community. We work pro-actively to reduce the amount of anti-Israel sentiment in South African political, religious, and cultural communities through education, advocacy, and lobbying.
The formation of the South African Zionist Federation precedes the establishment of the State of Israel, itself. Founded in 1898, the SAZF enabled South Africa’s Jewish community to assemble over its shared love for the piece of land that is no bigger than our famed Kruger National Park. More than a century later, however, South Africa has become regarded as “Ground Zero” for the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS) that was modelled on the anti-apartheid struggle in South Africa. As such, the image of Israel in the media, political sphere, and society has often been misconstrued and vilified.
Yet, the global campaign against Israel – particularly in South Africa – has emboldened the SAZF to remain even more committed to defending Israel and preserving her relationship with the people of Africa.
In the wake of October 7th and the subsequent ICJ case brought by the SA government, the SAZF has shifted into its most active “defensive” era, combatting the BDS movement and representing the community at a time of extreme diplomatic tension.
During the 1975 UN Resolution 3379 (which falsely labeled Zionism as racism), the SAZF became a global frontline defender of Zionist ideology. They had to navigate the complex reality of being a Zionist organization during the Apartheid era.
The SAZF didn’t just send money; they built a city. One of their first major projects after 1948 was the planning and funding of the South African section of the Israeli city, Ashkelon.
During the 1975 UN Resolution 3379 (which falsely labeled Zionism as racism), the SAZF became a global frontline defender of Zionist ideology. They had to navigate the complex reality of being a Zionist organization during the Apartheid era.
When Israel’s War of Independence broke out, the SAZF coordinated 804 volunteers (the “Machal” unit) to fly and fight for the new state.
The SAZF played a quiet but critical diplomatic role through their relationship with General Jan Smuts. Smuts was a member of the British War Cabinet and a key supporter of the Balfour Declaration.
A Unified Voice for South African Zionism.
The SAZF serves as the umbrella body for a diverse network of affiliate organisations. Together, we work across religious, cultural, and educational sectors to strengthen the bond between South Africa and the State of Israel.
