JOHANNESBURG – Nelson Mandela’s health is “steadily improving” South Africa’s presidency said Thursday, as the anti-apartheid legend began his 95th birthday and 15th wedding anniversary in hospital.
A man only known as Kobus, holds a ruling party poster with former South African President Nelson Mandela’s face outside the Mediclinic Heart Hospital where he is being treated in Pretoria, South Africa Wednesday, July 17, 2013. AP
“Madiba remains in hospital in Pretoria, but his doctors have confirmed that his health is steadily improving,” the government said in a statement, using Mandela’s clan name.
President Jacob Zuma wished Mandela a “joyous” 95th birthday.
“We are proud to call this international icon our own as South Africans and wish him good health,” he said in the statement. “We thank all our people for supporting Madiba throughout the hospitalization with undying love and compassion,” he added.