Nelson Mandela was commonly known as Madiba, including among fellow inmates on Robben Island.
Madiba is the name of the Thembu clan to which Mandela belonged. In South African usage, clan names can express respect, identity, and family connection. Mandela was often addressed as Madiba by South Africans and international supporters, especially after his release from prison.
The term is not the same as his birth name, Rolihlahla Mandela, or his given English school name, Nelson. It is also different from Tata, a Xhosa term meaning “father,” which became another respectful form of address later in his life.
Mandela spent 18 of his prison years on Robben Island, where inmates endured hard labor, restricted communication, and harsh conditions. His stature among prisoners grew over time, and the respectful use of Madiba reflected both his clan identity and his symbolic leadership.