Which prison in Cape Town held Nelson Mandela after his transfer from Robben Island in 1982?

Pollsmoor Prison held Nelson Mandela after his transfer from Robben Island in 1982.

Mandela had spent 18 years on Robben Island when authorities moved him and several other senior political prisoners to Pollsmoor Prison near Cape Town. The transfer reflected the government’s concern about his influence over younger prisoners and the growing international pressure surrounding his imprisonment.

At Pollsmoor, Mandela had better physical conditions than on Robben Island and was able to hold more confidential discussions with government representatives. He began secret talks with officials, including Justice Minister Kobie Coetsee, about ending political conflict and negotiating South Africa’s future.

Mandela remained at Pollsmoor until December 1988, when he was moved to Victor Verster Prison. He was released from Victor Verster on 11 February 1990, after more than 27 years in prison. Pollsmoor therefore formed an important middle stage between his long imprisonment on Robben Island and his eventual release.