Real Housewives of Durban (RHOD) star Jojo Robinson has opened up about the heartbreaking end of her friendship with fellow cast member Nonku Williams, bringing tears to the eyes of fans of the franchise.
Taking to Instagram shortly after part two of the RHOD Season 5 reunion aired on July 11, Jojo shared a heartfelt post reflecting on the breakdown of what was once one of the most cherished bonds on the show. Fans knew them as “Joku” — a nickname symbolizing their sisterly connection.
“I Loved Every Second We Spent Together” — Jojo Speaks from the Heart
In a deeply emotional message posted alongside old photos of the pair during happier times, Jojo addressed both Nonku and their devoted fans.
“The way I’ve avoided this post… but it’s gotten to the point where I just want to address it,” Jojo began. “Seeing comments saying this friendship didn’t matter, that it was just for work, is really hard to see. It was very real and it was filled with love and sisterhood.”
She continued with a direct message to Nonku:
“Dear Nonkie Nonks, I hope you find peace and love with whoever you choose in this life. I loved every second we spent together and I’m forever grateful for the friendship we shared… I understand that you are going in a different direction, and I hope one day we get to talk again in person.”
Jojo ended her letter with a touching note to fans:
“Thank you for believing in love and friendship… I’m sorry we let you down.”
Reunion Drama and Friendship Fallout
The emotional Instagram post came on the heels of the explosive Season 5 reunion episode, where Jojo revealed her lingering confusion and pain over the fallout with Nonku, who was notably absent from the reunion.
“It’s been a lot, especially from people on social media. I feel like no one believed in us… I don’t know what happened. I still don’t understand,” Jojo said tearfully.
Co-star Sorisha Naidoo added context, saying Nonku’s new friendship with Real Housewives of Pretoria star Bev Steyn, who shares her religious beliefs, might have drawn her away from Jojo. Sorisha also addressed previously unseen footage that showed Nonku suggesting her bond with Jojo was “just for Instagram” — a revelation that deeply stung fans and fellow castmates alike.
Fans and Celebs React with Love and Support
Jojo’s post immediately attracted an outpouring of support from celebrities and viewers. Actress Khanyi Mbau wrote:
“To both of you, may growth and understanding come from this experience. Love and light, my girlies.”
RHOD cast member Slee Ndlovu also chimed in:
“Aww Jojo, this is beautiful. May you both find your way back to each other.”
“Joku Nation” Says Goodbye — For Now
While fans continue to hope for a reconciliation between Jojo and Nonku, Jojo’s mature and forgiving tone in her letter suggests that even if their paths have diverged, the love was genuine.
“Even the strongest friendships can go through painful seasons,” she wrote, reminding followers that sometimes, letting go is the ultimate act of love.
