Pretoria - President Jacob Zuma has visited former President Nelson Mandela in hospital to check on his condition.
The former President is being treated for a recurring lung infection. His condition remains stable but critical.
President Zuma thanked the nation and the international community for their continued support.
“We appreciate all the love and compassion. Madiba is receiving the best medical care from a multi-disciplinary team of health professionals who are at his bedside around the clock,” said President Zuma.
July is observed as Mandela Month in SA, and Zuma reiterated his call for all South Africans to volunteer 67 minutes of their time on Mandela Day, 18 July, to help change their communities and South Africa for the better.
July 18 is Madiba’s birthday and the day is dedicated to his work and that of his charitable organisations, as part of ensuring that his legacy lives on.
This year’s event will take place under the theme, ‘Take action, inspire change, make every day a Mandela Day’ with a focus on food security, shelter and literacy.
Outside the hospital where the former President is being treated, well-wishers continue to pray for Madiba.
Among those praying for Madiba was Nomthandazo Simelane, 81, who travelled all the way from KwaZulu-Natal to wish Madiba well.
“Madiba has done so much for our country, he brought us democracy. We wish him a speedy recovery,” she said.
Paul Moeketsi told SAnews he was confident that Madiba would get well.
“Madiba is in good hands and will recover soon,” he said.
This year, government is again calling on South Africans to support the 94+ Schools Infrastructure Project in support of national Mandela Day, which was declared by President Zuma in 2009. - SAnews.gov.za
