Mandela 'steadily improving' on 95th birthday

JOHANNESBURG — South Africa celebrated Nelson Mandela's 95th birthday on Thursday, a milestone capped by news that the former president's health was improving after fears that he was close to death during ongoing hospital treatment.

Schools around the country honored the anti-apartheid leader in morning assemblies, and numerous groups have asked people to volunteer 67 minutes to charity to match what they say are the 67 years that Mandela served his community.

The United Nations has declared the day Nelson Mandela International Day as a way of recognizing the Nobel Peace Prize winner's contribution to reconciliation. Mandela, also known by his clan name Madiba, was jailed for 27 years under white minority rule and led a difficult transition from apartheid to democracy, becoming president in all-race elections in 1994.

"Madiba remains in hospital in Pretoria but his doctors have confirmed that his health is steadily improving," said a statement released by the office of President Jacob Zuma.

"We are proud to call this international icon our own as South Africans and wish him good health," Zuma said in the statement. He thanked South Africans for supporting Mandela during his hospitalization with "undying love and compassion" and responding to a call to give the beloved figure "the biggest birthday celebration ever this year."

Mandela was taken to a hospital on June 8 for treatment for a recurring lung infection. In previous announcements, the government said he was in critical but stable condition. Court documents filed by Mandela's family earlier this month had said Mandela was on life support and near death.

But on the eve of Mandela's birthday, one of his daughters, Zindzi, said in an interview with Britain's Sky TV that her father was gaining strength and may be going home "anytime soon."